AYLİN ÖNEY TAN
Boozy boza: Delight of winter nights
In Turkish towns, especially in the old neighborhoods of Istanbul and the like, the silent darkness of the night is often spiked with a sharp sound yelling “Boza!” It is the piercing sound of a wandering street vendor of boza, a fermented viscous drink, much loved by Turkish people, definitely an acquired taste for foreigners. Boza has a thick viscous consistency, pretty much like a soupy pudding or frumenty, or a thick smoothie. The taste is sweetish yet a bit tart, depending on the fermentation level. Made from millet, wheat, bulgur, rice, or a combination of various grains, it has an earthy, wholesome flavor with subtle yeasty notes. Imagine drinking a yeasty dough in liquid form. It is filling and satisfying, keeps one full for many hours, but it also nourishes the soul evoking a homely nostalgic feeling.
January 19 2025