I tried salep for the first time (I didn’t even know its name!) in Iran. Right before going snowboarding in Dizin, I felt like catching a cold; our host Shookoo then poured some powder into a hot water cup – I even found psyllium seeds inside the composition that had turned gummy. It helped me feel better and I went to the pharmacy to take some for home.

Last month, Marcel and I arrived in Gjirokaster and were welcomed dearly. The following morning, Erland helped us out with the translation while Emine, his Grandma, shared some Albanian cuisine insights; I did the same.

Among others, she mentioned a mountain orchid tubercle; she then made a drink, explaining that it was best drunk in winter or when catching a cold. She insisted that the powder she used was fully ’organic’. Bingo – I connected the dots and told them my Asian story.

Here’s the recipe for 2 portions; hope it’s useful!

1 teaspoon of salep powder

200ml water

Variant: 200ml milk (even vegetable milk – I tried it out with coconut milk)

Leave the water with the salep powder on medium heat for 6 minutes.

Let it cool for 5 minutes.

Pour into 2 cups and drink it as such or add milk to it before drinking.

It is wonderful to travel with an open heart – for new friends and new experiences!