How to make it
6 steps. Take it one step at a time.
Whisk together the salep powder and sugar
In a small bowl, whisk together the salep powder and sugar until fully combined to prevent clumping.
Pour the milk into a small saucepan
Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat. Do not let it reach a boil yet.
Slowly add the sugar and salep mixture
Slowly add the sugar and salep mixture to the warm milk, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth consistency.
Continue to simmer the mixture
Continue to simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring continuously, until it reaches a thick, velvety consistency similar to heavy cream.
10 minRemove from heat
Remove from heat and stir in the rose water if using.
Pour the hot drink
Pour the hot drink into two mugs. Garnish generously with ground cinnamon and crushed pistachios.
A little kitchen wisdom
Authentic salep powder is made from wild orchid tubers, providing a unique texture and flavor. If you cannot find pure salep powder, a mixture of cornstarch and rice flour is a common alternative. Always whisk the powder with sugar before adding to cold milk to prevent lumps.
