Dondurma: A Turkish Treat with a Unique Twist
In the world of ice cream, there are many unique and fascinating variations. From the rich and creamy American-style to the slow-churned Italian gelato, and the thick Indian kulfi, each country has its own twist on this beloved frozen dessert. But one particular variety, Turkey's dondurma, stands out for its extraordinary properties and rich history.
What makes dondurma truly remarkable is its ability to stretch and almost melt-proof texture. This unique characteristic is achieved through the use of an orchid-based flour called salep, which is produced exclusively in Turkey. The orchid, from which salep is derived, has faced overharvesting and is now protected under international law, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this delicious treat.
The art of making dondurma is a spectacle in itself. Street vendors in tourist hubs like Istanbul's İstiklal Avenue showcase their skills by pounding and kneading the ice cream with long metal rods, creating a mesmerizing display. Customers are drawn into a playful cat-and-mouse game, where the ice cream is offered, snatched away, and flipped, all while the vendor's traditional costume adds to the charm.
However, to truly experience the finest dondurma, one must venture beyond the street carts. Serez Gurme Dondurma, a gourmet ice cream chain in Istanbul, offers a refined and authentic experience. Founded by Serdar Kemahlı, the shop's epiphany came when he witnessed the joy of people waiting in line for ice cream during a visit to a small town on the Aegean coast. The vibrant colors and flavors, far from any real fruit or nut, sparked his passion for creating a lost treat.
The key to dondurma's success lies in its ingredients. Made with milk, beet sugar, and salep, the latter being a glucomannan-rich orchid flour, it boasts a higher melting point and a more intense flavor. Kemahlı explains that glucomannan's ability to bind water makes it the 'scientific secret' behind the ice cream's stretchy texture. The process of making salep involves harvesting orchid plants, a practice that has led to their near-extinction due to overharvesting.
Despite the challenges, Kemahlı's Serez Gurme Dondurma prioritizes sustainability and ingredient purity. They source natural, pesticide-free fruit from local farms and proudly display lab reports confirming the purity of their ingredients. Kemahlı's philosophy goes beyond making ice cream; it's about protecting the environment and the very essence of dondurma.
While dondurma has been declared the world's best frozen dessert by TasteAtlas in 2025, its popularity remains largely confined to Turkey. The authentic experience of enjoying true dondurma can only be found within the country, making it a must-try for travelers seeking unique culinary adventures. From its magical street performances to its refined artisanal creations, dondurma is a treat that captivates both locals and visitors alike, leaving a lasting impression of Turkey's rich culinary heritage.
