15 Irresistible Turkish Dishes Everyone Should Try at Least Once

Turkish cuisine is celebrated for its diverse flavors, influenced by a culinary history that stretches across the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian regions. This blend creates a unique fusion of savory delights, offering a taste that’s both satisfying and distinctive. Turkish cuisine promises a culinary experience that’s rich in tradition and flavor. Here are some of the most delicious Turkish foods you need to try.

Kebabs

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Kebabs are grilled meat dishes that come in various styles, such as Adana (spicy minced meat) and Şiş (skewered meat). To make Adana kebab, mix minced lamb with red pepper flakes, garlic, and salt, then shape onto skewers and grill over high heat. These kebabs are perfect for a smoky, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Lahmacun

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Lahmacun, known as Turkish pizza, is a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, tomatoes, and spices. Spread a mixture of ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices on flatbread, bake until crispy, and serve with fresh herbs and lemon. Lahmacun is a delightful twist on traditional pizza with a burst of Turkish flavors.

Manti

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Manti are Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat and spices. To prepare, make a dough, roll it out, cut into squares, and fill with a mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices. Fold into small parcels and boil until cooked, then top with yogurt and melted butter. These dumplings offer a comforting and flavorful taste of Turkish tradition.

Baklava

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A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough and nuts, soaked in honey or syrup. Layer sheets of filo dough with a mixture of crushed nuts and melted butter, bake until golden, and drizzle with a honey syrup. Baklava’s sweet and nutty crunch makes it an irresistible dessert.

Börek

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Börek is a savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. Layer sheets of filo dough with your chosen filling, brush with melted butter, and bake until crispy and golden. Börek’s flaky texture and savory filling make it a favorite snack or appetizer.

Pide

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Pide is a boat-shaped bread topped with ingredients like cheese, eggs, and sausage. Spread a mixture of cheese and your choice of toppings onto the dough, fold the edges to create a boat shape, and bake until the crust is crisp. Pide offers a hearty and satisfying meal with endless topping possibilities.

Köfte

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Köfte are spiced meatballs made from beef or lamb. Combine ground meat with onions, garlic, and spices, shape into balls or patties, and grill or fry until browned and cooked through. Köfte’s savory flavor and juicy texture make it a versatile and popular dish.

Çorba

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Çorba refers to Turkish soups such as lentil soup (Mercimek Çorbası). Cook red lentils with onions, carrots, and spices, blend until smooth, and season with lemon juice and fresh herbs. Çorba is a comforting and nutritious way to start any meal.

Dolma

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Dolma consists of grape leaves or vegetables stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and spices. Prepare a filling with rice, pine nuts, and herbs, stuff grape leaves or hollowed vegetables, and cook in a pot with a bit of water and lemon juice. Dolma offers a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for special occasions.

Simit

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Simit is a sesame-encrusted bread ring, often enjoyed as a snack. Prepare a dough, shape into rings, dip in water with molasses, coat with sesame seeds, and bake until crispy. Simit’s crispy exterior and soft interior make it a delightful snack or breakfast treat.

Menemen

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Menemen is a Turkish scrambled egg dish with tomatoes and peppers. Sauté onions and peppers, add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened, then stir in beaten eggs and cook until just set. Menemen is a flavorful and satisfying breakfast option with a Mediterranean twist.

Kısır

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Kısır is a bulgur salad mixed with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. Combine fine bulgur with tomato paste, chopped vegetables, and a tangy pomegranate molasses dressing, and mix well. Kısır is a refreshing and vibrant salad that pairs well with grilled meats.

Ayran

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Ayran is a refreshing yogurt drink. Blend yogurt with water and a pinch of salt until smooth, and serve chilled. Ayran’s cool, creamy texture makes it the perfect complement to spicy and grilled foods.

Kuzu Tandir

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Kuzu Tandir is slow-roasted lamb that becomes tender and flavorful. Season a lamb shoulder with herbs and spices, roast slowly in the oven, and serve with roasted vegetables. Kuzu Tandir is a luxurious and comforting dish that’s ideal for festive gatherings.

Sucuk

Image Editorial Credit: Mironov Vladimir / Shutterstock

Sucuk is a spicy Turkish sausage. Slice and fry or grill until browned, and serve as part of a breakfast spread or in sandwiches. Sucuk’s bold flavor and satisfying texture make it a standout ingredient in Turkish cuisine.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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