Are you looking for a unique and delicious culinary experience? Then look no further than the traditional foods and drinks of Turkey! With its centuries-old history and diverse cultural influences, Turkish cuisine offers a wide range of flavors and textures for foodies to explore. And f you are planning to visit Turkey, you should sample some of the delicious traditional foods and drinks the country has to offer. From flavorful kebabs and börek to sweet desserts and refreshing drinks, Turkish cuisine is full of interesting dishes and flavors. Here are four traditional Turkish foods and drinks that you should try during your trip to the country.
Kebab
Nothing says “Turkish experience” quite like indulging in a delicious kebab. A traditional dish, the kebab has been served for centuries in Turkey and is one of the country’s most beloved dishes. Kebabs are usually made from lamb or chicken and are typically served with vegetables and yogurt sauces.
There are many types of kebabs, but they all involve meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) that’s grilled over an open flame and served with flatbread, salad, and yogurt. The most popular type of kebab is the döner kebab, which is made with layered meats and usually served in sandwich form and consists of sliced meat served in a wrap or over rice.
This type of kebab is especially popular in Istanbul and other large cities around the country. Other popular types include shish kebab, Adana kebab, and çöp şiş, which are made with ground beef and pork.
In addition to the traditional options, you can also find vegetarian and vegan kebabs in some restaurants. Many places offer a range of unique ingredients, including mushrooms, potatoes, peppers, and more.
No matter what kind of kebab you choose, you can be sure that it will be cooked to perfection and full of flavor. So that you can enjoy the incredible culinary experience of having a delicious kebab in Turkey.
Meze
If you’re looking for a delicious Turkish treat, meze is an absolute must! Meze, also known as Turkish tapas, is a delightful array of small plates that can be served as starters, sides, or even snacks. Popular dishes include fried vegetables, hummus, eggplant salad, Tarama, and of course, delicious olives.
A meze is an appetizer that is usually shared between multiple people. Popular mezes include hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves, dolma (rice-stuffed grape leaves), and kisir (a bulgur wheat salad).
What makes meze so unique is that it’s incredibly versatile - there are endless combinations of flavors and textures. Depending on the region, you may even find local specialties like kofte (meatballs), smoky kebabs, and other regional treats. For a truly authentic experience, take your meze to the next level by pairing it with a glass of raki, a traditional Turkish spirit made from grapes or figs.
Meze is best enjoyed with family and friends. Whether you’re in a café or at home, meze is the perfect way to bring people together over a selection of small dishes and a shared love of food.
Borek
Borek is a savory pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. It’s often served as part of breakfast or as an appetizer.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a more leisurely meal, borek is always a delicious option. Its versatility and tasty fillings make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s also a great way to experience traditional Turkish flavors without having to commit to a full meal. So if you’re visiting Turkey, make sure to try some borek!
You'll find them at bakeries all over the country, but they can vary depending on the region. Some popular variations include cheese and spinach, potato, meat and onion, and eggplant and feta. All of these are usually served in triangle shapes, which makes them easy to grab as you explore.
Borek is a type of savory pastry dish that’s popular in many parts of Turkey. It’s made by wrapping thin layers of dough around a filling of feta cheese, meat, or vegetables. The filled dough is then baked until it’s golden brown and crispy. Borek can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
A popular type of borek is known as “Gozleme”, which has a filling of spinach, cheese, and herbs. You can find Gozleme in street stalls or restaurants all around Turkey. Another variety, called “Yufka Boregi”, is usually served as an appetizer or part of a meze platter. Yufka Boregi is made with thinly rolled dough and filled with white cheese, parsley, and sometimes onions or potatoes. The finished pastry is rolled into a spiral before baking.
Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is a traditional beverage made with finely ground coffee beans that are boiled in a small pot with sugar and spices like cardamom. It’s served with a glass of water on the side to help cleanse your palate.
One of the oldest and most popular traditional drinks in Turkey is Turkish coffee. It is made from finely ground coffee beans that are boiled with sugar and spices, such as cardamom. The beverage is served in small cups, with the grounds settling at the bottom. When prepared correctly, it has a creamy texture and rich, intense flavor.
Traditionally, Turkish coffee is brewed slowly over low heat in an ibrik (a small pot with a narrow spout). The grounds are added to the pot and then water and sugar are added before it's brought to a boil. Once the desired consistency is reached, the pot is removed from the heat and served.
Because of its intense flavor and aroma, Turkish coffee has become popular around the world. It’s now common to find it in many cafes, restaurants, and homes. It’s also a popular choice when visiting Turkey as a tourist. Whether you’re at home or abroad, try this unique coffee for a unique and flavorful experience.
For a true taste of the local culture, order Turkish coffee the way locals do: add a teaspoon of sugar per cup, along with either salt or cinnamon, depending on preference. Don't forget to pour it directly into the cup without using a filter. This ensures that all the ground will settle at the bottom and not get into your mouth. To bring out the flavor, drink your Turkish coffee without milk or cream.