Top 5 Foods That Define Turkey

Ever been to Turkey before? No wonder if it is your very first time or you have explored it multiple times during Turkey holidays, one thing we can bet on is, you can not miss out on the food here! Even if you do so, your entire trip is going to fall short of the best culinary experiences. Therefore, when in Turkey, you should know that food is everything here, and the Turkish food is not just about flavours, it exudes cultural charm, generosity, the joy of sharing, and heartfelt moments.

While it is strategically located between Europe and Asia, which makes it a great spot for enjoying food of different influences and cultural inspirations, the major draw about Turkey is, it owns its unique flavours, and that is why Turkish food is appreciated worldwide. Many of the tourists just plan their Turkey luxury holidays to check out on the food scene here. Whether you are freely roaming across the streets of Istanbul or sitting at a cosy cafe in a small town, Turkish food can change the way you perceive Turkey as a holiday site, shaping more positive experiences.

Let’s take a walk through the best 5 foods that you must not miss during your stay in Turkey.

1. Kebap

When one thinks about Turkish food, Kebap is among the first things that they will think of, and it is for quite obvious reasons. It is delicious and fulfilling, and comes in numerous delicious varieties. Kebap is not only of just one type in Turkey. As an example, Adana kebap is hot, spicy, and is made from minced lamb. The meat is rolled on a skewer and grilled on an open fire, which makes it rather smoky and rich in flavour.

Another famous type is Iskender kebap. It is prepared using thin slices of doner meat on small bits of flatbread. It is covered with tomato sauce and melted butter, and further served with yogurt. Overall, it is a comforting and heartwarming meal that is nourishing and light on the stomach. Kebap makes a great choice whether you eat it at a fancy restaurant or a small shop in the street. It is not only a meal but a major part of the Turkish tradition and something that people really love to share with their family and friends.

2. Simit

When you go around any Turkish city in the morning, you are likely to hear somebody shouting Simit! This is because simit is a common breakfast meal in Turkey. It is a round bread with sesame seeds and resembles a bagel to some extent, but is much lighter and crunchy on the outside.

Turkish people normally consume simit with cheese, olives, or even keep it plain with a cup of Turkish tea. It is easy to eat, inexpensive and very delicious, and is loved by everybody, both young and old. Simit is available everywhere in Turkey, on the streets, ferry boats, bakeries, or small carts. To most of Turkish citizens, simit and tea are an ideal way to begin the day.

3. Borek

Borek is a flaky pastry of thin layers of dough called yufka, and can be filled with anything of your choice, including cheese, spinach, minced meat or even potatoes. It is baked or fried to turn golden and crisp and is equally good in taste either consumed hot or cold. Some versions of Borek, such as su boregi are tender and wet, nearly resembling a cheesy pasta. While others are crunchy and ideal as snacks on the move.

Borek can also be prepared at home for a family feast, yet it is also a widespread product in cafes and bakeries. No matter whether you like to have it as a breakfast, lunch, or a snack between meals, it stands out as one of those dishes that instantly satisfy your hunger and make you feel fuller.

4. Lahmacun

Lahmacun is sometimes referred to as the Turkish pizza, though it is a little different. It is a flatbread that is thin and crispy and is covered with minced meat that is normally lamb or beef. Further, it is combined with onions, tomatoes, and spices such as paprika and parsley. Cheese is not added to it, unlike pizza, and this is how it is different from traditional pizza.

It is then baked until the sides are crispy and golden, normally topped by squeezing lemon over it, followed by some fresh parsley or lettuce, and rolled up like a wrap and eaten. The best thing about Lahmacun is, it is light on the stomach as well as on your pockets. Usually, it is served in small restaurants known as Lahmacun salons all around Turkey. It is a common lunch or quick dinner option, and most people eat it with a cold glass of Ayran, which is a salty yogurt beverage that goes really well with the spicy taste.

5. Baklava 

Your Turkey holidays are still not complete if you haven’t tried this dish yet. Baklava is a sweet dessert that is prepared using the incredibly thin layers of pastry that are filled with crushed nuts such as pistachios or walnuts. It is baked till it turns golden brown and is dipped in sweet syrup. It might appear an easy thing, however, making good baklava is a skillful thing with lots of expertise needed.

The pastry has to be very thin, the layers must be even, and the syrup has to be just the right amount, not too much. When baklava is done correctly, it is crunchy on the top, fluffy at the center, and dissolves in the mouth. It is normally consumed on special occasions, during holidays or as a dessert after a heavy meal. However, to tell the truth, after you have tried one piece, it’s hard to stop!

Hope you enjoyed the culinary journey. Contact Virikson Holidays for the best Turkey holidays!