Turkish Food: 12 Must-Try Dishes from Different Regions
If you're visiting Turkey, you definitely won't want to miss out on trying some of the country's most traditional dishes. Turkish cuisine is incredibly diverse, with flavors and ingredients that vary depending on which region you are in. From kebabs and baklava and Turkish coffee, there is something for everyone when it comes to Turkish food. In this blog post, we will take a look at 12 must-try dishes from different regions of Turkey!
A Look into Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine has its roots in Central Asia, with Turkish people having migrated to Anatolia (present-day Turkey) in the 11th century. Turkish cuisine is therefore a blend of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Ottoman influences. Common ingredients used in Turkish cooking include lamb, beef, rice, bread, tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and beans.
A typical breakfast is usually a light meal, consisting of things like bread, cheese, olives, eggs, and jam. Lunch is the main meal of the day in Turkey, and usually consists of rice or pasta, meat or chicken, vegetables, and a salad. Dinner is typically a lighter meal than lunch, and may consist of soup, bread, and cheese. Turkish food is often served with salads and side dishes such as yogurt, hummus, and eggplant salad. Their traditional coffee is the national drink of Turkey, and is typically served after meals.
Now that we've whet your appetite, let's take a look at 12 must-try Turkish dishes from different regions of the country!
Kebabs
Kebabs are one of the most popular dishes in Turkey and for good reason! They are typically made with lamb or beef that has been marinated in a variety of spices and then grilled on a skewer. The most common type of kebab is the doner kebab, which is thinly sliced meat that is cooked on a rotating spit. Turkish kebabs are typically served with rice, salad, and Turkish bread.
Baklava
Baklava is a dessert that is made with layers of filo pastry, nuts, and syrup. It is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, with the Turkish city of Gaziantep being particularly well-known for its delicious baklava. Baklava is often served as a special treat on religious holidays such as Ramadan and Eid.
Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is a type of coffee that is brewed using very fine grounds and then boiled in a pot. Turkish coffee is usually served black and with no sugar, although some people like to add a little bit of Turkish delight or honey. Turkish coffee is traditionally drunk after a meal and is said to aid digestion. The unique way of making Turkish coffee means that it has a slightly bitter taste.
Pide
Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that is typically topped with cheese, eggs, and vegetables. It is often described as Turkish pizza, although it predates the Italian dish by several centuries. Pide is thought to have originated in the Anatolian region of Turkey.
Kofta
Kofta is a type of meatball that is made with ground lamb or beef. It is usually seasoned with spices such as cumin, paprika, and Turkish red pepper. Kofta is often served with rice, lentils, and vegetables.
Dolma
Dolma is a dish that consists of stuffed vegetables, typically vine leaves, peppers, or eggplants. The filling is usually made with rice, ground meat, and spices. Dolma is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine and is often served as a main course.
Lahmacun
Lahmacun is a Turkish flatbread that is topped with a spicy mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and herbs. It is sometimes referred to as Turkish pizza and is a popular street food in Turkey.
Manti
Manti is a type of Turkish dumpling that is typically filled with ground beef or lamb. The dumplings are then boiled and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. Manti is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine and is often served as a main course.
Gozleme
Gozleme is a Turkish flatbread that is typically filled with cheese, spinach, and potatoes. It is a popular street food in Turkey and is often served as a snack or light meal.
Borek
Borek is a type of Turkish pastry that is made with layers of filo dough and typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Borek can be baked or fried and is a popular snack or light meal.
Meze
Meze is a type of Turkish appetizer that typically consists of a selection of small dishes, such as dips, salads, and Turkish bread. Meze is often served before a main course and is a great way to try a little bit of everything.
Turkish Delight
Turkish delight is a type of candy that is made with sugar, nuts, and often citrus flavors. Turkish delight is said to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, and it remains a popular treat in Turkey today. Turkish delight is often served as a dessert or snack, and makes for a great souvenir to take home with you!
These are just a few of the delicious Turkish foods that you must try when you visit Turkey! Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or a sweet treat, you're sure to find something to your taste in Turkey.
