Traditional Turkish Şalgam Drink Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 turnips
  • 2 carrots
  • 1 beetroot
  • 1.5 liters of water
  • 4 teaspoons of bulgur wheat
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons of sugar
  • 1 slice of whole wheat bread

Steps and instructions

  1. First, clean the turnips, beetroot, and carrots thoroughly.
  2. Then, peel the turnips, beetroot, and carrots and grate them into small pieces.
  3. Take a large glass jar and add the grated vegetables into it.
  4. Add the bulgur wheat, sugar, and salt into the jar.
  5. Add a slice of whole wheat bread on top of the mixture.
  6. Pour water into the jar until it is full.
  7. Cover the jar tightly with a cheesecloth or a lid that allows air to enter.
  8. Keep the jar in a warm place for 15-20 days for fermentation.
  9. After the fermentation period, strain the mixture to get Şalgam juice.
  10. Your Şalgam is ready to serve, enjoy it cold!

Tools for making

  • Grater - Used to grate the turnips, beetroot, and carrots into small pieces.
  • Large glass jar - Used to store and ferment the vegetable mixture.
  • Cheesecloth or lid - Used to cover the jar during the fermentation process, allowing air to enter.
  • Strainer - Used to strain the fermented mixture and extract Şalgam juice.

Recipe variations

  • Additional spices such as cumin or chili powder to give the Şalgam a spicier flavor.
  • Replace the turnips with red cabbage for a different flavor and color.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • Add sliced ginger for a hint of warmth and freshness.
  • Include black peppercorns or cloves for added depth of flavor.
  • Replace the bulgur wheat with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
  • Add chopped fresh herbs like mint or parsley to enhance the aroma and taste.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the steps of making traditional Turkish Şalgam juice. Şalgam is a popular fermented beverage in Turkey, typically enjoyed cold and known for its unique taste and health benefits. It is made from a mixture of turnips, carrots, beetroot, bulgur wheat, salt, and sugar, fermented over a period of 15-20 days. The process of making Şalgam is quite simple and straightforward. The most important part is the fermentation, which imparts the distinctive taste to the drink. Once the fermentation is complete, the mixture is strained to obtain the juice. The end result is a tangy, flavorful beverage that is both refreshing and nutritious. So, if you're interested in trying a new fermented beverage or if you're a fan of probiotic drinks, this Şalgam recipe is definitely worth a try!

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of vegetables?
    Yes, you can experiment with different vegetables like radishes or cabbage, but the traditional recipe uses turnips, carrots, and beetroot.
  2. How long does the fermentation process take?
    The fermentation process usually takes around 15-20 days.
  3. Can I add more sugar or salt?
    You can adjust the amount of sugar and salt according to your taste preferences, but it's recommended to follow the recipe as it balances the flavors.
  4. What is the purpose of adding bread slice?
    The bread slice helps with the fermentation process by providing yeast for the natural fermentation of the şalgam.
  5. How should I store the şalgam after fermentation?
    It is best to store the şalgam in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and extend its shelf life.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Şalgam, a popular beverage in Turkey, particularly in the southern regions, has unique origins. Originating from the city of Adana, Şalgam has been a part of Turkish culinary culture for hundreds of years. Its creation is believed to be an outcome of the ingenious use of available resources. Farmers in the region, having excess turnips from the harvest, would ferment them to create this tangy and refreshing drink. The process of fermenting turnips with purple carrot juice and bulgur flour results in a distinctively flavored drink, which has both a sweet and sour taste. Şalgam is traditionally served cold, and it is often paired with Raki, a Turkish alcoholic beverage. It's also a popular cure for hangovers in Turkey. Its unique flavor and rich history make Şalgam an unforgettable part of any culinary journey in Turkey.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.