Discover Unique International Drinks You’ll Love

Around the world, each culture has its own beloved beverages, offering a taste of tradition, flavor, and creativity. From sweet and refreshing to bold and comforting, international drinks provide a unique way to explore global flavors. If you’re looking to expand your drink repertoire, here are some fascinating international beverages that you’ll love to try!

1. Mate – Argentina

Mate (pronounced “ma-teh”) is a traditional Argentine drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. This strong, earthy beverage is typically served in a hollowed-out gourd and sipped through a metal straw, called a “bombilla.” Mate is often shared among friends or family and is known for its stimulating effects due to its caffeine and theobromine content. It’s a social drink that provides a caffeine boost and has a slightly bitter, herbal taste.

2. Lassi – India

Lassi is a popular, creamy drink from India made with yogurt, water, and spices. It’s often flavored with fruit like mango or with savory spices such as cumin and salt. Mango lassi is particularly beloved, offering a sweet, rich flavor with a refreshing, smooth texture. Lassi is a great digestive aid and a cooling drink, perfect for hot weather or after a spicy meal.

3. Sake – Japan

Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Often referred to as “rice wine,” sake has a smooth, slightly sweet flavor and can be served hot or cold, depending on the occasion and type. It’s commonly enjoyed during ceremonies, celebrations, and meals, pairing perfectly with sushi or Japanese cuisine. The delicate and refined nature of sake makes it a unique drink to savor and enjoy.

4. Agua de Jamaica – Mexico

Agua de Jamaica (pronounced “ah-gwah deh hah-my-kah”) is a refreshing Mexican drink made from dried hibiscus flowers. The petals are steeped in water and sweetened with sugar, resulting in a tangy, slightly floral beverage. This drink is not only delicious but also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day and is often served chilled with ice.

5. Cendol – Southeast Asia

Cendol is a traditional dessert drink popular in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. It’s made from pandan-flavored rice flour jelly, coconut milk, crushed ice, and palm sugar syrup, creating a sweet, creamy, and chewy treat. Sometimes, it’s topped with red beans or sweet corn. Cendol is typically served cold, making it a perfect drink for a hot day, and offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

6. Turkish Tea – Turkey

Turkish tea, known as “çay” (pronounced “chai”), is an essential part of Turkish culture. It’s brewed strong and served in small, tulip-shaped glasses, allowing the deep amber color to shine. Turkish tea is typically consumed without milk, though it’s often accompanied by sugar. The robust, slightly bitter flavor pairs beautifully with Turkish delights or savory snacks, making it a beloved drink for socializing or relaxing.

7. Horchata – Spain and Mexico

Horchata is a sweet, creamy drink made from rice, almonds, cinnamon, and sugar. Though the drink’s origin dates back to Spain, it’s widely consumed in Mexico, where it’s served cold. Mexican horchata is made with rice, giving it a refreshing, milky texture, while the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor. It’s often served with tacos or enjoyed as a sweet refreshment on a warm day.

8. Kvass – Russia

Kvass is a traditional fermented beverage from Russia, typically made from rye bread, water, and sugar. It has a slightly sour and tangy taste, with a low alcohol content (usually less than 1%). Kvass is often consumed as a refreshing summer drink and is known for its probiotic properties. It’s a staple in Russian cuisine and is enjoyed in many variations, sometimes flavored with fruits, herbs, or berries.

9. Baijiu – China

Baijiu is a strong, clear distilled spirit from China made from grain, typically sorghum. Known for its bold, potent flavor, baijiu is the world’s most consumed spirit by volume. It has a distinct aroma and is often consumed in small shots or sipped slowly during celebratory occasions. Baijiu is an acquired taste, but those who enjoy it appreciate its complexity and cultural significance.

10. Caipirinha – Brazil

Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail, made from cachaça (a distilled spirit from sugarcane), sugar, and fresh lime. The ingredients are muddled together, resulting in a refreshing, tangy, and sweet drink that’s perfect for hot weather. It’s often served over ice and is the ultimate drink for parties and celebrations in Brazil. Caipirinha’s bold flavors make it an irresistible choice for cocktail lovers.

11. T’ej – Ethiopia

T’ej is a traditional Ethiopian honey wine, often flavored with spices such as ginger and cloves. It’s made by fermenting honey with water and a special type of hops called “gesho leaves.” The resulting beverage is sweet, spicy, and mildly alcoholic, with a deep amber color. T’ej is typically served at special events, gatherings, and celebrations in Ethiopia and is often enjoyed with traditional dishes.

12. Pisco Sour – Peru and Chile

Pisco Sour is a refreshing and tangy cocktail made from pisco (a type of brandy), lemon or lime juice, egg white, sugar, and bitters. Both Peru and Chile claim to have created the drink, making it a central part of both countries’ cultural identities. The combination of citrus, sweetness, and smooth pisco makes Pisco Sour a delightful and energizing drink for any occasion.

Conclusion

Exploring international drinks is a wonderful way to discover new flavors, learn about different cultures, and expand your palate. From the invigorating Yerba Mate in Argentina to the rich, honeyed T’ej from Ethiopia, each drink tells a story of tradition and creativity. Whether you’re sipping on a cold glass of agua de Jamaica or savoring the warmth of Turkish tea, these unique drinks are sure to delight and offer a taste of the world’s diverse beverage culture.