Turkey, a country that bridges two continents, boasts a culinary heritage as diverse and vibrant as its culture. From rich, flavorful stews to sweet, honey-drenched pastries, Turkish cuisine is a gastronomic journey you don’t want to miss. Here are the top 7 foods you must try when visiting Turkey.
1. Kebabs
Kebabs are perhaps the most famous Turkish food, known worldwide for their succulent taste. Turkey offers a variety of kebabs, each region having its unique take. The Adana kebab, spicy and made with minced meat, is a must-try. The Şiş kebab, consisting of skewered and grilled cubes of meat, often lamb, is another favorite. For a more adventurous palate, the İskender kebab, served with yogurt, tomato sauce, and butter-soaked pita bread, is a delightful option.
2. Baklava
No trip to Turkey is complete without indulging in Baklava. This sweet, layered pastry made of thin filo dough, chopped nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and soaked in honey or syrup, is a feast for the senses
3. Meze
Meze in Turkish cuisine is a great list of appetizers and dishes designed to be served as a group. It’s a full course food with different textures in each bite; the freshness of the vegetables, the rich taste of dips and juicy marinated seafood. Indulge in the culinary treat and beautiful colors of Meze as an appetizer or as a light meal. Serve it with warm pita bread and enjoy it with a glass of raki, an anise flavoured drink of Turkey. Popular mezes include hummus, baba ghanoush, ezme (a spicy tomato salad), and dolma (stuffed grape leaves). Enjoying meze with a glass of rakı (a traditional Turkish alcoholic drink) is a quintessential Turkish experience.
4. Pide
Pide, a classic Turkish flatbread, is sometimes called “Turkish pizza.” It is very well-liked in Turkey and comes in a variety of shapes and flavors. Here’s a closer look at this well-known dish:
5. Lahmacun
Lahmacun is also known as ‘Turkish pizza,’ is a kind of pizza baked in a thin and crunchy crust, the toppings of which consist of minced meat, onions, tomatoes and a blend of spices. Well cooked, it is usually taken accompanied by lemon and topped with parsley. As a sweet, it is not only well-known as a traditional street food but the Turks love it like there is no tomorrow. It can be considered as a main dish with a light sauce or as an appetizing snack at any time.
6. Manti
Turkish dumplings, or manti, are a popular delicacy in Turkish cooking. These little dumplings with meat filling are a mainstay in many homes and have a unique place in Turkish cooking culture. A closer look of Manti is as follows:
7. Simit
Simit is also known as the Turkish bagel and is considered as one of the most famous street foods of Turkey. They have a thin and crunchy sesame seed coating on the surface while the inside is both tender and moist. Simply eat it as it is, or with cheese serve it with some jam and it’s a perfect snack any time in a day. Its skin is smooth, golden-brown and it tastes divine! You have to try this snack!
Conclusion
Turkey’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and cultural diversity. Each dish tells a story and offers a taste of the country’s heritage. Whether you’re savoring a hearty kebab, enjoying the sweetness of baklava, or sharing a platter of meze with friends, Turkish food is an experience that delights all the senses. Be sure to try these top 7 foods on your next visit to Turkey for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
