“If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move.
As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river.
The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes
or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody.
Open your mind, get up off the couch, move.”

― Anthony Bourdain

 

With flavors as rich and exotic as its fascinating history, Turkey should be at the top of any foodie’s vacation destination list.

If you choose to make the most out of your stay by going all-inclusive, make sure that you venture out into the markets, shisha bars and restaurants to sample the country’s culinary delights.

There is a lot to see and do in this almost magical part of the world, so you’ll need food-fuel. Here are five dishes you must try on your travels. You are welcome in advance!

Lamachun 

Photo credit: Rainer Zenz

Think of this as Turkey’s answer to the pizza! On a thin bed of dough you will find a finely minced mixture with onions and tomatoes. This is finished with fresh toppings like rocket, lettuce and parsley, with a squeeze of lemon juice. Vegetarian options use a beetroot mix instead of mince, which is equally tasty.

Kebabs

Photo credit: Partyzan_XXI

Okay, so Turkey is home to the original and best kebabs that are now copied the world over. There are a whole load to choose from: Adana Kebab (lamb meat, hot peppers, onion, tomato); Beyti Kebap (lamb or beef, tomato, garlic and parsley paste, topped with yoghurt); Alinazik (roasted meat, eggplant, garlic, spices). These are only a small selection, so try as many as you can.

Baklava

Photo credit: H.Y. Karaamet

For a sweet treat, try this traditional Turkish pastry. It is made with thin sheets of buttered thin dough that are layered and filled with various ingredients such as almonds, pistachios and walnuts. Recipes also use dried fruits and delicious spices – enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Meze

Photo credit: Unai Guerra

These are a great way of sampling various bits of local produce in one tasty sitting. Spreads can include: olives, tzatziki, spicy pickled beetroot, vine leaf parcels filled with rice, aubergine salad, flatbread, feta cheese, hummus, spicy cooked meats and baba ganoush. Of course, that’s not an exhaustive list, so you might find yourself trying something that you’ve never even heard of before.

Su Böreği

Photo credit: Mederibeyza

Not quite pasta, not quite pastry but definitely a taste sensation. Su böreği is made from a soft dough that is cooked in milk and eggs. It is then layered, like a lasagna, with cheese and spinach. It will fill up any rumbling tummy and provide energy for an afternoon of sightseeing.

If this has got you salivating then get a trip to Turkey booked pronto! In the meantime, try your hand at putting together a meze spread or making an authentic kebab, to get you in the mood 🙂

Now it’s your turn…

Tell us,

 

Have you tried Turkish food where you lived?

If so, what is your favorite meal?

If you haven’t yet, would you love to? 

Let us know.

Until next time.

Tashi Delek, all the best!

K 🙂