In this section we delve into the tea culture in Turkey and the Balkan region, where tradition, aesthetics and beauty go hand in hand. In these regions, tea is more than just a beverage; it is a cultural experience that reflects history and togetherness.
Turkey, which is the sixth largest tea producer in the world, plays a central role in tea culture and has one of the world's highest annual consumption of tea per capita. inhabitant.
The history of tea in Turkey dates back to the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, when tea was introduced and drinking customs were established. However, it was not until the 1920s, after seeds were brought from the Soviet Union, that the Turks began to grow their own tea. While many are familiar with Turkish coffee, Turkish tea is equally popular in the country. The tea is enjoyed in the home, in shops and at special places where men gather. After World War I, Ataürk, the country's founder, encouraged the population to drink tea, as there was a shortage of coffee and the price was high.
The traditional way to brew Turkish tea is using a special pot called çaydanlık, which resembles a samovar. The tea leaves are placed in the top pot while the water boils in the larger pot below. This creates a strong tea brew, which is then diluted and sweetened as needed. The tea is served in small tulip-shaped glasses, and you can choose between a strong brew, also known as "rabbit blood," or a milder version.
Turkey's tea culture has also spread to the nearby Balkans and Cyprus, where Turkish tea has become an important part of the local drinking culture. Montenegro also grows its own small amount of tea, enriching the region's tea range.
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