Gazoz

Sometimes you just need a refreshing non-alcoholic drink to get you through your day. I’m always on the lookout for inspirational drinks sans booze, and I’ve recently learned about a traditional Turkish soda called Gazoz. We’re going to make a homemade version that is just the chef’s kiss of freshness!

Watch Me Mix Gazoz

What is Gazoz?

Gazoz is a traditional Middle Eastern soda that comes from the Ottoman Empire and became especially popular in Israel. It’s not a single flavor or a brand, but rather a style of drink: sparkling, citrusy, and often layered with fresh fruit syrups, herbs, or juices. Sounds lovely, no?

Gazoz often uses macerated fruits or fruit syrups, but it’s not mandatory. Think of adding macerated fruit as the “old-school, market stall” version.

In Israel, Gazoz started as a simple soda of sparkling water + citrus + syrup. But many modern bars elevate it by adding jars of macerated fruits, herbs, and spices that you spoon into the glass.

Think of Gazoz as a customizable, elevated soda that sits somewhere between a cocktail, a mocktail, and an anytime refresher.

Flavor Ideas

• Lemon juice & raspberries
• Rosemary & grapefruit
• Lime juice & passionfruit
• Mint & peaches
• Orange juice & pomegranate

Make Your Own Macerated Fruit

Using macerated fruit in your Gazoz gives it more depth of flavor, natural sweetness, a gorgeous color, and a slightly jammy, elevated cocktail bar vibe. Who doesn’t love an artisanal moment?

To make your own macerated fruit, simply combine fresh fruit + sugar (or honey) + herbs or citrus peel (optional) in a bowl or other container. Mix together and let sit until the fruit releases its juices and becomes syrupy. They add the fruit and its syrupy juices to your Gazoz!

Flavor Combos

• Strawberries + sugar + lemon peel
• Peaches + sugar + mint
• Grapefruit + honey + rosemary
• Raspberries + sugar + rosewater