Drinks are an integral part of global culinary traditions, offering a glimpse into diverse cultures and flavors. From refreshing fruit-based beverages to aromatic teas, every corner of the world has unique concoctions to offer. These drinks not only quench your thirst but also provide a sensory experience that reflects the heritage and creativity of their origins. Here are 13 distinctive drinks from around the globe that you can try at home or seek out on your travels.
1. Moroccan Mint Tea (Morocco)
A refreshing and aromatic drink, Moroccan mint tea is a staple in North Africa. Made by brewing green tea with fresh mint leaves, it is sweetened generously with sugar. The tea is traditionally served in small glasses, poured from a height to create a light froth. Its preparation is considered an art, symbolizing hospitality and warmth. To make it, brew 1 teaspoon (2 g) of green tea leaves in 2 cups (500 ml) of water, add a handful of fresh mint, and sweeten with 2 tablespoons of sugar or to taste. Serve warm for an authentic experience.
2. Lassi (India)
Lassi is a creamy yogurt-based drink from India, known for its versatility. A classic version includes yogurt, water, sugar, and cardamom, blended into a smooth, refreshing drink. Variations include fruit lassis, with mango being a popular choice, or savory versions seasoned with salt and cumin. To prepare, mix 1 cup (240 ml) of yogurt, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of cold water, 2 tablespoons (25 g) of sugar, and a pinch of cardamom. Blend until frothy, garnish with crushed pistachios, and serve chilled.
3. Sahlab (Middle East)
Sahlab is a warm and comforting milk-based drink enjoyed in the Middle East, particularly during colder months. Made from milk, sugar, and sahlab powder (ground orchid tubers), it is thickened to a pudding-like consistency and garnished with cinnamon or chopped nuts. For a homemade version, mix 2 cups (500 ml) of milk, 2 tablespoons (15 g) of cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons (25 g) of sugar. Heat until thickened and serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
4. Ayran (Turkey)
Ayran is a simple yet refreshing yogurt-based drink popular in Turkey and neighboring regions. It is made by whisking together yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt until frothy. This savory beverage is often served with grilled dishes or enjoyed on its own as a thirst quencher. To make, blend 1 cup (240 ml) of yogurt, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Serve cold and garnish with a sprig of mint for a cooling touch.
5. Tamarind Agua Fresca (Mexico)
Agua fresca, or “fresh water,” is a traditional Mexican beverage. Tamarind agua fresca stands out with its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, making it both refreshing and unique. To prepare, soak 1/2 cup (125 g) of tamarind pulp in 2 cups (500 ml) of water for 20 minutes, then strain to remove seeds and fibers. Sweeten with 2 tablespoons (25 g) of sugar, adjusting to taste, and dilute with cold water as needed. Serve over ice for a cooling drink that pairs beautifully with spicy or savory dishes.
6. Chai Masala (India)
Chai masala is a spiced tea blend that is both aromatic and invigorating. Black tea is brewed with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, then simmered with milk and sweetened with sugar. To prepare, boil 2 cups (500 ml) of water with 1 teaspoon (2 g) of chai masala spices, add 1 teaspoon of black tea leaves, and simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup of milk and sugar to taste, then strain and serve hot.
7. Sobolo (Ghana)
Sobolo, also known as hibiscus tea, is a red drink popular in Ghana, appreciated for its refreshing and tangy taste. Made by boiling dried hibiscus petals with ginger, cloves, and sugar, it delivers a slightly spicy and aromatic flavor. To prepare, boil 1 cup (30 g) of dried hibiscus petals with 4 cups (1 liter) of water, 1 teaspoon (5 g) of grated ginger, and 2 tablespoons (25 g) of sugar, stirring to dissolve. Allow the mixture to cool, strain to remove solids, and serve chilled over ice. Garnish with fresh mint or citrus slices for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Jallab (Middle East)
Jallab is a sweet and fragrant drink made with grape molasses, rose water, and water, often garnished with pine nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor. It is a refreshing choice during warm weather, excellent for quenching thirst while enjoying its unique aroma. To make, mix 1/4 cup (60 ml) of grape molasses, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of rose water, and 2 cups (500 ml) of cold water, stirring until combined. Add ice cubes to chill and garnish with a handful of pine nuts for an authentic and delightful touch.
9. Es Cendol (Indonesia)
Es cendol is a popular Indonesian dessert drink made with pandan-flavored jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, offering a blend of creamy, sweet, and aromatic flavors. The jelly, made from rice flour and pandan juice, gives the drink its green hue and unique texture. To assemble, layer 1/4 cup (60 g) of cendol jelly in a glass, pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of coconut milk, and drizzle 2 tablespoons (25 ml) of palm sugar syrup on top. Serve over crushed ice for a refreshing and visually striking treat, ideal for warm days.
10. Falooda (India/Pakistan)
Falooda is a layered dessert drink made with rose syrup, vermicelli, sweetened milk, and basil seeds, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It is often topped with ice cream for a luxurious and indulgent touch. To prepare, soak 1 tablespoon (10 g) of basil seeds in water until they swell. Cook 1/4 cup (25 g) of vermicelli and let cool completely. In a glass, layer 2 tablespoons of rose syrup, the basil seeds, vermicelli, and 1 cup of sweetened milk. Top with a scoop of ice cream and serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
11. Pomegranate Juice (Middle East)
Pomegranate juice is refreshing drink popular in the Middle East, known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Fresh pomegranate seeds are pressed to extract their juice, which is often enjoyed as-is or slightly sweetened. To prepare, deseed 2 large pomegranates, place the seeds in a blender, and pulse gently to release the juice. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve, pressing to extract every drop. Add 1 teaspoon (5 g) of sugar or honey, if desired, and serve over ice for a cooling, antioxidant-rich drink.
12. Matcha Latte (Japan)
A modern take on traditional Japanese matcha tea, matcha latte combines matcha powder with milk for a creamy and energizing drink enjoyed worldwide. To prepare, whisk 1 teaspoon (2 g) of high-quality matcha powder with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of hot water until frothy and smooth. Heat 1 cup of milk until warm, then add it to the matcha mixture, stirring gently. Sweeten with 1 teaspoon of honey if desired for a balanced flavor. Serve warm for a cozy treat or over ice for a refreshing pick-me-up.
13. Karak Tea (Qatar)
Karak tea is a spiced milk tea popular in Qatar and the Gulf region, known for its rich and aromatic flavor. Made by brewing black tea with cardamom, saffron, and sugar, it delivers a comforting and fragrant experience. To prepare, boil 2 cups (500 ml) of water with 1 teaspoon (2 g) of black tea leaves, 2 lightly crushed cardamom pods, and a pinch of saffron to enhance the aroma. Add 1 cup of milk and 2 teaspoons of sugar, simmer gently for 5 minutes, strain, and serve hot for a delightful and warming treat.