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This Turkish Ice Cream Doesn’t Melt

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Ankara might be the capital city, but Kahramanmaraş is Turkey’s undisputed ice cream capital.

Atilla Kanbur is the fourth generation in his family to make delicious Turkish ice cream, churning out 5 tons of the sweet stuff a day. What’s so special about Turkish ice cream? It’s stretchy, it’s sticky, oh, and it doesn’t melt.

What is the main ingredient in Turkish ice cream that gives it its unique texture?

Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a popular dessert that has been enjoyed in Turkey for centuries. But what makes this ice cream so unique compared to the regular ones that we are familiar with?

One of the most interesting characteristics of Turkish ice cream is that it doesn’t melt easily. It is notorious for its thick, sticky, and stretchy texture which is quite different from the texture of regular ice cream. This is due to a natural plant-based ingredient called salep, which is derived from the root of wild orchids, found in the mountains of Turkey.

Salep has been used in Turkish cuisine for centuries and it was traditionally used to thicken yoghurt and soups. This ingredient has antimicrobial properties and a high content of carbohydrates, which make it ideal for creating the thick and stretchy texture of Turkish ice cream that we know today.

The process of making Turkish ice cream is quite different from regular ice cream. The ingredients are mixed and cooked over low heat, resulting in a thick paste-like mixture. The mixture is then churned and stretched numerous times, which creates the famous elastic texture of Turkish ice cream. The signature consistency of Turkish ice cream makes it more difficult to melt than traditional ice creams, which is why it is often served with a knife and fork instead of a cone.

In addition to its unique consistency, Turkish ice cream is also known for its diverse range of flavors including, Pistachio, Mastic, Vanilla, Chocolate and many others. The flavors are often accompanied by toppings such as nuts, Turkish delight, and fresh fruits.

Turkish ice cream culture is not just about the ice cream itself but also the way it is served, particularly by street vendors or “dondurmacı” who put up an entertaining show while serving the ice cream to customers. The vendors often perform tricks like juggling, flipping the ice cream cone or teasing the customer by pulling it away as they try to take a bite. This tradition is part of the experience and adds to the uniqueness of Turkish ice cream culture.

In summary, Turkish ice cream’s distinct characteristic is its amazing texture, which is attributed to its main ingredient, salep. The unique taste and texture experience along with the performance of vendors make it an unforgettable culinary experience. So the next time you come across Turkish ice cream, give it a try and indulge in the authentic flavors of this amazing dessert.