10 Traditional Turkish Dishes You Have to Try

Published by Maza at 04/03/2023

Turkish cuisine is a blend of Eastern and Western flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a history that spans thousands of years, Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. Whether you’re a foodie looking for something new to try or a traveler eager to explore the local cuisine, here are ten traditional Turkish dishes that you simply have to try.

Table of Contents

Turkish cuisine

Table of Contents

Introduction
Turkish Breakfast
Meze
Iskender Kebab
Baklava
Pide
Manti
Lahmacun
Kofte
Turkish Delight
Turkish Tea and Coffee
Conclusion
FAQs

1. Introduction

Turkish cuisine has been shaped by the country’s location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and its long and rich history. From the Ottoman Empire to the modern day, Turkish cuisine has evolved to incorporate ingredients and techniques from a wide range of cultures, resulting in a unique culinary tradition that is rich in flavor and diversity.

2. Turkish Breakfast

Turkish breakfast, or kahvalti, is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for starting your day. A typical Turkish breakfast includes a variety of dishes such as fresh bread, olives, cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, and honey. The meal is usually accompanied by a cup of Turkish tea, which is strong and flavorful.

Turkish breakfast

3. Meze

Meze is a type of appetizer that is commonly served in Turkish restaurants. It consists of a variety of small dishes, such as stuffed grape leaves, hummus, eggplant salad, and meatballs. Meze is perfect for sharing with friends or family, and is usually accompanied by a glass of raki, which is an anise-flavored liquor.

4. Iskender Kebab

Iskender kebab is a famous Turkish dish that originated in the city of Bursa. It consists of thinly sliced lamb or beef that is cooked on a spit and served with a tomato-based sauce, yogurt, and pita bread. The dish is named after its creator, Iskender Efendi, and is considered one of the most popular kebab dishes in Turkey.

5. Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry that is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. It is a popular dessert in Turkey and is often served with a cup of Turkish coffee. Baklava is said to have originated in the Ottoman Empire and has since become a staple in Turkish cuisine.

Baklava

6. Pide

Pide is a type of Turkish pizza that is made with a thin crust and a variety of toppings such as cheese, meat, and vegetables. It is usually cooked in a wood-fired oven and is served hot and fresh. Pide is a popular street food in Turkey and is often eaten as a quick and satisfying meal.

7. Manti

Manti is a type of dumpling that is commonly found in Turkish cuisine. It consists of small pockets of dough that are filled with ground meat, onions, and spices, and are usually served with yogurt and garlic sauce. Manti is a popular dish during the winter months and is perfect for warming up on a cold day.

8. Lahmacun

Lahmacun is a type of Turkish flatbread that is topped with a spicy meat sauce, onions, and parsley. It is usually served with a wedge of lemon and is a popular street food in Turkey. Lahmacun is often eaten as a snack or as a quick meal, and its spicy and flavorful topping makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

9. Kofte

Kofte is a type of meatball that is made with ground beef or lamb and a variety of herbs and spices. It is usually served with a side of rice or bulgur, and is a popular dish in Turkish homes and restaurants. Kofte can be grilled or fried, and its juicy and flavorful meat makes it a must-try dish in Turkey.

10. Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight, or lokum, is a type of sweet candy that is made with sugar, cornstarch, and flavorings such as rosewater or lemon. It is a popular dessert in Turkey and is often served with a cup of Turkish tea. Turkish Delight comes in a variety of flavors and is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

11. Turkish Tea and Coffee

Turkish tea, or cay, is a staple in Turkish culture and is served in small glasses with a sugar cube on the side. It is a strong and flavorful tea that is perfect for sipping on a cold day. Turkish coffee, on the other hand, is a rich and thick coffee that is brewed in a cezve, a small copper pot. It is usually served with a glass of water and a sweet treat such as Turkish Delight.

Turkish tea

12. Conclusion

Turkish cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that is a reflection of Turkey’s long and rich history. From hearty breakfasts to sweet desserts, there is something for everyone in Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie or a traveler, these ten traditional Turkish dishes are a must-try and will give you a taste of the unique flavors and aromas of Turkey.

13. FAQs

What is Turkish cuisine known for? Turkish cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, blending Eastern and Western influences.

What is the most popular Turkish dish? Some of the most popular Turkish dishes include Iskender kebab, manti, and baklava.

What is Turkish tea? Turkish tea, or cay, is a strong and flavorful tea that is a staple in Turkish culture.

What is the best time to visit Turkey for foodies? The best time to visit Turkey for foodies is during the fall and winter months, when the weather is cool and the cuisine is hearty and comforting.

What is Turkish Delight? Turkish Delight, or lokum, is a type of sweet candy that is made with sugar, cornstarch, and flavorings such as rosewater or lemon.