Traditional Food in Turkey

Baklava Turkish food

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Last updated:
06.10.2021

If you're looking for an exotic vacation destination, Turkey is the place to go. One of the best things about this country is its food! Many cultures from around the world have influenced Turkey cuisine, resulting in a mix of Eastern and Western dishes.

There is no better way to get acquainted with its culture than taking a trip to Turkey and sampling traditional Turkish food. No matter what your tastes are, Turkey has something for everyone!

1. Dolma

The word "dolma" comes from the Arabic word meaning "stuffed." It is a Turkey national dish of stuffed grape leaves that is most commonly associated with the cuisines of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. It's unclear where this tasty food originated, but it has been around since ancient times and is deeply ingrained in Turkey cuisine.

Dolma Turkish food

The word "dolma" comes from the Arabic word meaning "stuffed." It is a Turkey national dish of stuffed grape leaves that is most commonly associated with the cuisines of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. It's unclear where this tasty food originated, but it has been around since ancient times and is deeply ingrained in Turkey cuisine.

Turkey dishes you should try:

  • Köfte
  • Lahmacun
  • Döner
  • Corba

2. Meze

Meze is an appetizer that consists of small Turkey dishes served in many Turkish restaurants and cafes. Traditionally, Meze includes vegetables, cheeses, dips, seafood, rusks, pita bread, and much more. In addition, this dish is usually accompanied by wine or beer.

These Mezze Platters are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them a great choice for dining with the company. Moreover, Meze has recently become very popular. Thus, you can find Meze on menus not only in Turkey, but also in Greece, Lebanon, Armenia, Syria, and more!

Meze

Additionally, Meze can differ in restaurants. Make sure to visit various places in different regions in Turkey to fully appreciate this dish. For your convenience, you can use Turkey trains to get to the destination since the country has a well-developed infrastructure.

3. Menemen

Menemen is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that can be served either as an appetizer or as part of the main course. In case you’re wondering what makes it so unique, the answer is quite simple: it is the combination of spices and ingredients and is quickly made!

Menemen

Typically, this dish is cooked from eggs, tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and spicy red pepper paste called "harissa." The ingredients are mixed in a pan with olive oil until they form a thick sauce. In addition, sumac is usually added for color and flavor. Menemen has many variations all over Turkey, including cucumbers instead of tomatoes, or it is topped with yogurt and parsley rather than sour cream and paprika. Sounds tasty, right?

Fact:
Turks have the highest tea consumption rate in the world.

4. Pilav

Pilav is one of the main dishes in Turkish cuisine. It's a rice dish that is typically cooked with savory vegetables, meat, or fish. However, with its rich history and diverse ingredients, it can be prepared to suit any taste buds!

Nevertheless, one common trait of all versions of pilav is that they are served at room or warm temperature after they are cooked, unlike other rice dishes, which are normally eaten cold.

Pilav

It is interesting to note that Pilav gained its popularity because it's easy to cook and requires few ingredients. Hence, this dish is beloved by many countries.

5. Lokum

Lokum, also known as Turkish delight, is one of the most delicious Turkey desserts. Lokum is a Turkish snack made from ground almonds and sugar with a long history in Turkey and is commonly served along with tea or coffee. Being one of the most popular Turkish delicacies, you can find lokum in different flavors such as lemon, pistachio, hazelnut, cherry almond, walnut, apricot almond, and cinnamon. What is more, there are also vegan-friendly versions made without honey that taste just as good! The best part about locum is that there's no wrong way to enjoy them; whether it's with tea, coffee, or on its own - it tastes great anyway!

Lokum

Elif Safak
I write with humour about sadness, to introduce an element of sweet to the sour, a bit like Turkish food.

6. Halva

Halva is a sweet and nutty Middle Eastern dessert that is popular in Turkey. Turkish Halva is a dessert that usually consists of sesame seeds or tahini, sugar, oil/vegetable fat, vanilla extract, and nuts such as almonds or pistachios. It can also be made with flour instead of sesame seeds. The consistency can range from soft to hard and it tastes better when it is stored for a while because the flavors strengthen over time.

Halva

7. Kumpir

Kumpir, also known as Turkish pizza, is one of the most popular Turkey street foods. The word itself literally means "potato" in Turkish. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the main ingredient is baked potato and includes various fillings and toppings such as cheese, eggs, and sausage. Due to its simplicity and delicious taste, Kumpir is adored by thousands of travelers. Thus, don't miss the chance to try this flavorsome dish.

Kumpir

As you see, there is no better way to experience the real Turkish culture than trying traditional food. Furthermore, many mouth-watering national dishes can be found throughout Turkey, and it's up to you which you want to try! If this sounds like your kind of adventure, make sure to check our best selection of Turkey tours, and let's hit the road!