Summer’s here — and it’s not holding back. With scorching, sun-drenched days upon us, there’s no better time to cool down with a sweet, icy indulgence.
Dondurma – Turkish Ice Cream Like No Other
In Turkey, dondurma (literally meaning “freezing”) is the word for ice cream — but don’t expect your usual scoop. Among the many brands and regional varieties, one stands out for its unique texture and taste: the legendary ice cream of Kahramanmaraş.
This isn’t your ordinary dessert. Maraş dondurma is famously chewy, dense, and elastic, thanks to two special ingredients: salep, a flour made from orchid tubers, and mastic, a natural resin. It’s the salep that gives the ice cream its rich, creamy flavour and its resistance to melting — a trait that makes it particularly well-suited to Turkey’s hot climate.
Before freezing, the ice cream is stretchy and pliable. Once frozen, it sets firm — almost rock-like — but don’t be fooled: once it hits your tongue, it melts luxuriously smooth, like butter.
A Dessert with a Twist
Maraş dondurma is truly one-of-a-kind. Traditionally, it’s served in thick slices, sprinkled with ground pistachios, and eaten with a knife and fork, as it’s far too dense for a spoon. You’ll also find it in tempting flavours like vanilla, peach, redcurrant, pistachio, chocolate, strawberry, and more.
Where to Try It – Including Right Here in Fethiye
During the summer, you’ll spot Maraş dondurma vendors in bustling tourist areas across Turkey. These sellers are performers as much as they are ice cream experts — twirling, stretching, and flipping the ice cream like a circus act. They’re known for their cheeky sleight-of-hand, teasing customers as they try to grab the elusive, sticky treat from the vendor’s scoop.
In Fethiye, keep an eye out for signs reading Maraş Dövme Dondurma and treat yourself to this unforgettable taste of Turkish tradition.
Afiyet Olsun!
This article was first published on 23 June 2022 and updated on 1 August 2025.
