Have you ever tasted Mercimek Yoğurtlama (Lentil Yogurt), one of Fethiye’s best-kept culinary secrets?
While Fethiye is well known for its turquoise coastlines and lush nature, its local cuisine is just as rich and vibrant — and Mercimek Yoğurtlama is a true hidden gem that deserves a spot on your table.
What is Mercimek Yoğurtlama ?
A refreshing and nutritious dish made with green lentils, garlicky yogurt, and a drizzle of crispy pepper-infused olive oil, Mercimek Yoğurtlama is both comforting in winter and cooling in summer. Served as a meze or light main, it’s a simple yet deeply flavourful recipe rooted in local tradition.
Want to try it yourself? Here’s the Fethiye-style recipe:
Ingredients:
- 500g dry green lentils
- 500g strained or regular yogurt
- 2–3 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tea glass olive oil
- 4–5 dried red peppers (hot or sweet)
- Salt
- Water
How to Make It:
- Boil lentils until tender, changing the water once to reduce gassiness.
- Sauté in butter with a pinch of salt.
- Mix yogurt with crushed garlic.
- Combine cooled lentils with the garlic yogurt.
- Heat olive oil with dried peppers until they sizzle (don’t burn!).
- Drizzle pepper oil over the yogurt mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
Local Tip: Use strained yogurt for a thicker consistency and don’t overcook the lentils — they should hold their shape.
Where to Eat It in Fethiye?
Look for traditional restaurants in Fethiye town centre or the surrounding villages serving authentic home-style meals — Mercimek Yoğurtlama might just surprise you!
Rediscover Fethiye through its flavours. Try this dish at home and bring a taste of the Turkish coast to your kitchen.
Source: Fethiye TV
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