What are the popular dishes I should try in Turkey?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary
Turkey is a country with a rich and diverse food culture, spanning centuries of history and traditions. If you're looking to sample the best cuisines that Turkey has to offer, here are some of the most popular dishes you should try. Whether you're looking for a spicy kick or something more traditional, Turkey has something to tickle your taste buds! The place is known for its rich history and culture, welcomes tourists with open arms. However, be sure to review the travel advisory and travel warnings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. Kebabs

One of the most popular dishes in Turkey is kebabs, which are prepared using marinated and grilled chunks of meat. Some famous types of kebabs you should try include:

  • Shish Kebab: Skewered meat (usually lamb or chicken) grilled to perfection.
  • Adana Kebab: Spiced ground lamb or beef formed into long, hand-minced kebabs.
  • Doner Kebab: Layers of marinated meat slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie and thinly sliced.
2. Manti

Manti is a traditional Turkish dumpling dish that is quite popular. It consists of small pockets of dough filled with spiced ground meat, typically served with melted butter, yogurt, and tomato sauce on top.

3. Lahmacun

Lahmacun, also known as Turkish pizza, is a thin and crispy dough topped with finely minced meat (usually lamb or beef), mixed with tomatoes, onions, herbs, and spices. It is often rolled up and eaten as a street food snack.

4. Baklava

Baklava is a traditional Turkish dessert made with layers of thin filo pastry, sweetened nuts (such as pistachios or walnuts), and held together with honey or syrup. It is a rich and indulgent treat that is served in small portions.

5. Turkish Tea and Coffee

While technically not a dish, Turkish tea (çay) and coffee (Türk kahvesi) are an integral part of Turkish culture. Turkish tea, often served in tulip-shaped glasses, is a black tea brewed with a samovar. Turkish coffee, on the other hand, is a rich, strong, and aromatic coffee often enjoyed with sugar.

6. Meze

Meze refers to a variety of small appetizer dishes that are commonly served in Turkish cuisine. These can include stuffed grape leaves (dolma), hummus, eggplant dips, stuffed peppers, olives, and many other delightful bites. Meze is often enjoyed before the main meal or as a social snack during gatherings.

7. Pide

Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients. It is similar to pizza but has its own unique flavors. Some popular varieties include cheese (peynirli pide), ground meat (kiymali pide), or a combination of different toppings.

8. Iskender Kebab

Iskender kebab is a famous dish from Bursa, consisting of thinly sliced doner kebab meat served over pieces of bread, smothered in tomato sauce, and drizzled with melted butter and yogurt. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal.

9. Turkish Delight

Turkish delight, also known as lokum, is a variety of gelatine-based sweets flavored with rosewater, citrus, nuts, or other fruits. It is a popular dessert and a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.

10. Simit

Simit is a traditional Turkish ring-shaped bread covered in sesame seeds. It is a popular street food item and is often enjoyed with tea for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

It's essential to stay updated with international travel information, especially when planning a foreign trip, to navigate any changes in travel advisory or travel warnings.

You may also like