Turkey’s diverse landscapes and vibrant history are mirrored in its cuisine, where each region brings unique flavors to the table. From the hearty stews of Anatolia to the zesty olives of the Aegean, Turkish cuisine is a celebration of color, flavor, and tradition. If you’re planning a culinary journey, here’s a guide to must-try Turkish food from every corner of the country.
The Heart of Turkish Cuisine: Kebabs
No discussion of Turkish cuisine would be complete without kebabs. More than just grilled meat, Turkish kebab offers a variety of flavors and styles that differ by region.
Anatolia Kebab: The heartland of Turkey, Anatolia, is home to a range of kebabs. Known for bold spices and slow cooking, Anatolia kebab features tender meats flavored with garlic and herbs, perfect for meat lovers.
Iskender Kebab: Originating from the northwestern region of Bursa, iskender is a beloved kebab style served over a bed of pita with yogurt and tomato sauce. A drizzle of melted butter adds a rich finish to this favorite.
Marmaris Kebab: On the southwestern coast, Marmaris kebab takes a lighter approach with fresh herbs and a unique blend of spices. This coastal twist on the traditional kebab brings a Mediterranean flavor profile that is perfect for warm evenings by the sea.
Doner Kebab: A Turkish Classic Loved Worldwide
Another iconic dish, doner kebab is a must-try for anyone visiting Turkey. Cooked on a vertical rotisserie, the thin slices of juicy meat are served in pita or wrapped with vegetables and sauces. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, doner is a staple of Turkish food and a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Kofte: Turkey’s Beloved Meatballs
Kofte, or meatballs, are another essential part of Turkish cuisine. These seasoned meatballs are prepared in a variety of ways depending on the region. In cities like Istanbul and Izmir, you’ll find grilled kofte served with rice and salad. In Anatolia, kofte is often stewed, giving it a rich and hearty flavor that’s perfect for colder days. Whether grilled, fried, or stewed, each bite of Turkish kofte reveals a blend of spices that highlights the culinary artistry of Turkish chefs.
Olive Oil Dishes: The Essence of Aegean Cuisine
The Aegean coast is known for its abundance of olives and olive oil, and zeytinyağlılar are dishes that celebrate these flavors. From stuffed grape leaves, known as sarma, to artichokes, these olive-oil-based dishes are light, fresh, and full of flavor.
Sarma: A classic dish, sarma involves rolling rice, pine nuts, and spices into grape leaves. This delicate and flavorful dish is often served as an appetizer and pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of Turkish raki.
Green Beans with Olive Oil: This dish, featuring green beans slowly cooked in olive oil with tomatoes and onions, is a summertime favorite in Turkey. It’s often served cold and pairs perfectly with fresh bread.
Eggplant Delights: In the Aegean, eggplant dishes such as “Imam Bayildi” (stuffed eggplant) are prepared with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, showcasing the region’s focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Dolma: The olive oil dishes of Turkey, bring out the best of the Aegean region’s fresh ingredients. Alongside sarma and green beans, dolma is another popular dish that showcases the versatility of olive oil in Turkish cuisine. Dolma consists of bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and spices, then slowly simmered in olive oil until tender. This dish is light yet deeply flavorful, and it’s commonly served cold as part of a mezze spread.
Sweet Treats from Turkey’s Regions
Turkish cuisine is famous not only for savory dishes but also for its indulgent sweets. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat with Turkey’s rich dessert selection.
Baklava: No list of Turkish sweets would be complete without baklava. Originating from the Ottoman Empire, this layered pastry is filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. Baklava from Gaziantep is particularly famous for its generous use of pistachios and buttery layers.
Kadayif and Kunefe: Kadayif and kunefe are traditional Turkish desserts that combine shredded dough with cheese and syrup. Originating in the southeastern regions, kadayif and kunefe are cooked to a golden brown and served hot, with kunefe often topped with crushed pistachios.
Marash Turkish Cuisine’s Ice Cream: Known for its stretchy texture, Marash Turkish cuisine offers a unique style of ice cream made from goat’s milk and salep, a flour made from orchid tubers. This chewy, flavorful ice cream is served across the country, but Marash’s version is unmatched.
Dumplings with a Twist: Manti
A staple in Turkish cuisine, manti are Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat and served with a topping of yogurt and garlic. These bite-sized dumplings are usually found in Anatolia, where they are crafted with care and served with a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Manti is not only delicious but also reflects the communal aspect of Turkish dining, as it’s often made by families together during special occasions.
Satisfying and Delicious Anatolian Classic: Rice Pilaf
Turkish rice pilaf is simple but full of flavor, often cooked with lamb, chicken, or vegetables. This dish is a great accompaniment to other Anatolian specialties and showcases the region’s culinary traditions.
Dining at a Turkish Cafe Restaurant
Turkey’s food culture is not limited to sit-down dinners. The Turkish cafe restaurant scene offers visitors a chance to enjoy local dishes in a casual setting. Cafes serve everything from quick snacks like simit (sesame bread rings) to traditional drinks like Turkish tea and coffee. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or an elaborate spread, the Turkish café scene provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can savor the flavors of Turkey.
Experiencing Regional Dishes on Your Turkish Journey
Sampling these regional dishes is a culinary adventure that brings you closer to the heart of Turkey. From savory kebabs in Anatolia to the fresh olive oil dishes of the Aegean, Turkish cuisine reflects the country’s diverse landscapes and deep-rooted traditions. For anyone wondering what to eat in Turkey, these regional specialties offer a memorable taste of Turkey’s vibrant food culture. Whether you’re exploring Marmaris, Anatolia, or Marash, each dish provides a unique flavor and a story that highlights Turkey’s culinary richness.