Turkish cuisine: specialities of different regions
Turkish food culture and cuisine are rich, diverse, and steeped in history. Each region of Turkey offers its own unique flavours and culinary traditions, making Turkish cuisine a vibrant and flavorful experience. From the rich olive oils of the Aegean to the spicy kebabs of the Southeast, the country’s diverse landscape is mirrored in its […]
Recipe: Yoghurt with Cucumber (Cacık)
A great dish for hot summer days, cacık (‘JAH’-juck) is a cool, refreshing blend of cucumber, yoghurt, and mint that’s a firm summer favourite. Served as a meze or alongside grilled meats, vegetables, casseroles, or spicy dishes, it’s also a perfect partner for BBQs. Made with thicker yoghurt such as süzme or Greek, it transforms […]
Fethiye’s Secret Flavour: Mercimek Yoğurtlama
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 ? […]
Turkish-style lamb flatbreads
These lamb flatbreads are inspired by lahmacun (Turkish meat pizzas). The thin base is spread with a lamb mince and veg mixture, cooked until crisp, then topped with sumac-dusted onions. It’s normally a snack, but this has main event status thanks to a thicker, puffier dough that soaks up all that delicious fat from the richly spiced lamb. Be a better cook Try to get […]
Mantı – traditional tiny Turkish dumplings
The word mantı derives from mantu, meaning dumplings. The dumplings typically consist of a spiced meat mixture, usually lamb or ground beef, in a thin dough wrapper and either boiled or steamed. Mantı is traditionally served with a garlicky yoghurt sauce and a red pepper or tomato sauce. The origin is somewhat uncertain, it is thought that the dish may have […]
Alinazik Kebab: A Turkish Classic
The translation of this kebab’s name might be “Ali-polite,” which could sound unusual if seen on an English menu at a Turkish restaurant. However, the name actually comes from the Ottoman phrase “ala nazik”, which translates to “delightful dish.” Despite its humble name, this kebab is simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s a specialty of the […]
Tahini and Molasses: essential ingredients for Türkiye’s winter cuisine
As Türkiye enters the winter season, its culinary practices adapt to the colder climate with dishes designed to provide comfort, warmth, and nutrition. Two key staples of the Turkish winter diet are tahini and molasses (pekmez). These ingredients have been integral to Turkish cuisine for centuries, valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility. Tahini: A […]
Künefe: the ultimate Turkish dessert experience
A delectable Turkish dessert made with stringy cheese and crispy, buttery pastry—it’s no wonder künefe is a crowd favourite! Make your own with this recipe from Ozlem’s Turkish Table Serves 6 Ingredients 225g/8oz shredded kadayif – künefe pastry strands, thawed if frozen 145g/5oz melted unsalted butter 300g/12oz fresh mozzarella, sliced (or Antakya’s white cheese for künefe, künefelik peynir or dil peyniri in Türkiye if […]
Christmas Food with a Turkish Twist: A Fusion of Tradition and Flavour
While Christmas dinner traditions vary around the world, Türkiye offers a unique culinary twist on holiday feasts, blending rich flavours and time-honoured dishes with a distinct cultural flair. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas in Türkiye or looking to add something different to your holiday table, here are some delicious ideas for a festive meal with a […]
Chestnut Hummus
This chestnut hummus is an easy, quick, and flavourful Middle Eastern-inspired dip, made with roasted or cooked chestnuts, tahini, lemon, and garlic. It offers a unique twist on traditional hummus by swapping chickpeas for chestnuts, creating a creamy and subtly sweet spread that’s just as versatile and delicious. Ingredients 1.5 cups Cooked Chestnuts ½ tsp Cumin Powder 2 tbsp Tahini 2 medium Garlic […]