Turkish delights: 8 must-try dishes and drinks
Turkey, with its rich history and diverse culture, offers a tantalizing array of culinary delights that reflect its geographical location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. From savory kebabs to sweet baklava, Turkish cuisine has something to satisfy every palate. Here are eight dishes and drinks that you absolutely must try when visiting this beautiful country.
Turkish delight (Lokum): Let's kick off our culinary adventure with something sweet! Turkish Delight, known as "Lokum" in Turkish, is a famous confectionery that has been enjoyed for centuries. These bite-sized, gel-like sweets come in various flavors such as rose, pistachio, and pomegranate. Lokum is often dusted with powdered sugar or coconut flakes.
Baklava: A dessert fit for royalty, baklava is a rich and decadent pastry made from layers of thin phyllo dough, nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and sweet syrup. The layers are stacked, baked to perfection, and then drenched in a fragrant syrup made from sugar, water, and a hint of lemon juice or rosewater. The result is a mouthwatering treat that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Turkish tea (Çay): Turkish tea, or "çay" in Turkish, is a cultural staple and a symbol of hospitality. Served in delicate tulip-shaped glasses, it is typically brewed strong and black, although you can add sugar to taste. Enjoying a cup of çay while sitting in a traditional Turkish teahouse or on a scenic terrace is a quintessentially Turkish experience (although it is an almost exclusively male pursuit).
Turkish coffee: For those who appreciate a strong and aromatic coffee, Turkish coffee is a must-try. Finely ground coffee beans are simmered in water along with sugar (if desired) and cardamom in a special pot called a "cezve." The result is a thick and robust coffee that is traditionally served in small cups with a side of Turkish delight. Don't forget to read your fortune in the coffee grounds left at the bottom of your cup!
Doner kebab: No visit to Turkey is complete without savoring a delicious doner kebab. Thinly sliced pieces of marinated meat, usually beef or chicken, are stacked on a vertical rotisserie and cooked slowly to perfection. The meat is then sliced and served in a flatbread or pita with fresh vegetables and various condiments, creating a mouthwatering – and messy – sandwich.
Köfte: Köfte, or Turkish meatballs, are a popular dish made from ground meat (often beef or lamb) mixed with spices, onions, and herbs. These flavorful meatballs are typically grilled and served with a side of rice, salad, and pita bread. As you travel around Turkey you’ll encounter many variations on the köfte theme, with each region adding its unique twist to this classic dish.
Iskender kebab: Iskender Kebab is a regional specialty from Bursa, Turkey, and it's a must-try if you're in the area. Thinly sliced doner meat is placed on a bed of pita bread and generously topped with tomato sauce, yogurt, and melted butter, creating a delectable combination of flavors and textures.
Raki: To cap off your culinary journey in Turkey, try a glass of raki (similar to Greek Ouzo), often referred to as "Lion's Milk." This anise-flavored alcoholic drink turns milky when mixed with water, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind. Raki is often enjoyed with meze, a selection of small dishes, creating a convivial and social dining experience.
Turkey's culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, with a diverse array of dishes and drinks that cater to all tastes. These eight dishes and drinks are just a taste of what you can expect when you visit Turkey with SA Expeditions. Please peruse our sample itineraries here; then speak to a Destination Expert about designing your own Turkish delight.