Turkish Tea 101: Everything You Need to Know About This Iconic Drink

Date: February 24, 2025

Posted By: Ali AKPINAR

Turkish tea, known as "çay" in Turkish, is more than merely a drink—it's a cultural tradition, a symbol of hospitality, and an integral part of daily life in Turkey. Whether you're visiting Turkey for the first time or simply interested in this cherished beverage, this guide will provide you with all the essential information about Turkish tea, covering its history, preparation, and significance in Turkish society.

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ALL ABOUT TURKISH TEA

A Brief History of Turkish Tea

Although Turkey is commonly linked to coffee, tea has actually become the country's most widely consumed beverage. Its popularity surged in the early 20th century when the government promoted tea cultivation in the Black Sea region, especially in Rize, where the climate is ideal for growing tea.

Today, Turkey ranks among the world's top tea-consuming nations, with locals enjoying multiple cups daily.

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What Makes Turkish Tea Unique?

Turkish tea stands out from other varieties due to its bold flavor, deep red hue, and distinctive brewing process. It is made with black tea leaves, primarily grown in Rize, and is traditionally prepared using a special double teapot known as a çaydanlık.

Unlike conventional tea bags, Turkish tea is brewed gradually, enhancing its rich and fragrant taste.

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How to Brew Turkish Tea Like a Pro

To make authentic Turkish tea, follow these steps:

What You Need:

A çaydanlık (Turkish double teapot)
High-quality loose-leaf black tea (preferably from Rize)
Fresh, filtered water
Small Turkish tea glasses

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Step-by-Step Preparation:

Boil Water Fill the bottom kettle of the çaydanlık with water and bring it to a boil.
Add Tea Leaves Place 2-3 tablespoons of loose-leaf tea in the top kettle.
Steam the Tea Pour some boiling water from the bottom kettle into the top kettle to steep the tea leaves. Let it brew for 10-15 minutes.
Dilute to Taste To serve, pour a small amount of concentrated tea into a tulip-shaped glass, then dilute with hot water from the bottom kettle, adjusting the strength to your preference.
Enjoy! Serve hot, usually with sugar cubes. Traditional Turkish tea is not consumed with milk.

The Role of Tea in Turkish Culture

Tea is a symbol of hospitality in Turkey. It's offered to guests, served at business meetings, and enjoyed during social gatherings.

In small villages and large cities alike, you’ll find tea gardens (çay bahçesi) where people sit, chat, and sip tea for hours.

Tea also plays a big role in Turkish breakfast, often served alongside simit (sesame-crusted bread), olives, cheese, and honey. It’s also common in workplaces, where employees take tea breaks throughout the day.

Health Benefits of Turkish Tea

Drinking Turkish tea isn't just a delightful experience—it also has health benefits, including:

Rich in antioxidants Helps boost immunity and fight free radicals.
Aids digestion Often enjoyed after meals to aid digestion.
Boosts energy Contains caffeine to provide a gentle energy boost.
Supports heart health Some studies suggest black tea may improve heart health.

Where to Buy Authentic Turkish Tea

If you want to try Turkish tea at home, look for brands like Çaykur, Doğuş, or Lipton’s Turkish tea line. You can find them in international markets, Turkish grocery stores, or online retailers.

For a truly authentic experience, consider buying a çaydanlık and tulip-shaped glasses, which enhance the tea-drinking experience.

Turkish tea is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a social connector, and a taste of Turkish hospitality. Whether you're sipping it in a bustling Istanbul café or brewing it at home, one thing is certain: once you experience Turkish tea, it will become a cherished part of your tea routine.