Why  Turkish Food is famous all over the world?

 

 

Turkey—a mystical land rich in history, culture, art, and natural beauty. One of the marvels of this beautiful country is its varied and delightful cuisine, which makes Turkish food one of the best cuisines in the world. From desserts to savory dishes, Turkey offers an array of flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. The cuisine is not merely food; it embodies the warmth and hospitality that Turkey is known for. From the baklavas and Turkish delights that line the streets to the sizzling sounds of kebabs, let me take you on a culinary journey through this food paradise. Here are ten must-try Turkish foods for your next trip to Turkey.

1. Baklava

Baklava is a famous Turkish traditional cuisine. It is made up of several layers of phyllo sheets filled with nuts—pistachios, walnuts, and almonds. The whole pastry is drenched in sugar syrup infused with rose water or orange blossom, giving it freshness and an appealing taste. Baklava has several variations in sizes and fillings. There are several famous shops serving Baklava, out of which Hafiz Mustafa and Faruk Golluoglu are the best ones, where you can try Baklava cheesecake, Dubai Chocolate Baklava, and Baklava topped with ice cream.

2. Kunafa

Kunafa is another famous Turkish food. It features special dough known as kataifi pastry, which envelops a gooey cheese and cream-filled center in a crispy crust that melts in your mouth. Kunafa is traditionally made on specially designed stovetops over direct flame using a unique pan. Like Baklava, Kunafa comes in several variations, including cheese Kunafa, chocolate Kunafa, and cream Kunafa, often enjoyed with toppings like crushed pistachios and rose petals.

3. Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee is also an essential part of Turkish cuisine. It stands out for its unique flavor and distinct brewing method. It is prepared using special sand and a uniquely shaped pot. Traditionally served in elegant cups and saucers, Turkish coffee is a cultural symbol. One great spot to enjoy it is on Balat Street, where you can savor your coffee alongside traditional Turkish music that transforms your experience. If time permits, consider attending a workshop to learn about this fascinating coffee-making tradition.

4. Kumpir

Kumpir is a baked potato dish that has become a popular Turkish street food. The potato is baked whole in specially designed ovens, and then split open to be generously filled with a variety of ingredients and flavors. Common toppings include olives, corn, vegetables, and cheese. The best place to try Kumpir is in Ortakoy, where you can enjoy your meal while taking in a scenic sunset with the Ortakoy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge in the background.

5. Adana Kebab

Adana kebab is a savory Turkish food. It is one of Turkey’s most famous kebabs, originating from the Adana region. It is made from minced meat and a blend of spices like sumac, peppers, and cumin, delivering a smoky flavor. Adana Kebab is often wrapped in flatbread and served with various dips made from cucumber, garlic, onion, and peppers, along with a refreshing salad on the side.

6. Turkish Tea

Turkish tea is an essential part of Turkish food, which boasts a unique flavor and is served in tulip-shaped cups with oval saucers. It’s a perfect accompaniment to your Turkish breakfast or can be enjoyed after a meal, with some restaurants even offering it as a complimentary service.

7. Turkish Lokum

Turkish Lokum, or Turkish delight, is a sweet candy made from sugar and cornstarch. These treats can be found in every Turkish sweet shop, available in flavors like pistachio, rose, orange, and more. They also make delightful gifts.

8. Tahini Helva

Tahini is a commonly used in Turkish cuisine. It can be used in several dishes, and Tahini Helva is one among them. Tahini Helva is a sweet delight made from sesame paste and sugar syrup. Nuts and dried fruits are added to it; it’s served in blocks or cubes.

9. Dondurma

Dondurma is the Turkish name for ice cream. It’s a stretchy-textured ice cream and has a different mouth feel than regular ice creams. It is served by ice cream sellers across the streets, who serve this sweet delight with playful tricks. It’s a must-try experience on your Turkey trip.

10. Simit

Simit is a form of bagel and is found almost everywhere in Turkey, from bakery shops to street vendors. It’s a staple in Turkish food. It’s circular bread that’s topped with sesame seeds. People enjoy it with chocolate spreads, cheese, or tahini. You can have it along with Turkish tea as well.

Best Places to Enjoy Turkish Sweets and Delights

Hafiz Mustafa

One of the most famous shops for Turkish sweets and delights. The variety will surely blow your mind. This shop has outlets all around Turkey.

Faruk Golluoglu

This is another place for desserts and delights. Hands down, this is the best place to try Baklava. This shop also has outlets all over Turkey.

 

Some Activities That Include Turkish Food

Bosphorus Cruises

These cruises take you around the Bosphorus, from where you can have views of the Bosphorus Bridge, the Dolmabahce Palace, the Ortakoy Mosque, and many more landmarks. This is a slow cruise. While you enjoy the cruise along with music and dance performances, you will be served many Turkish foods—starters, main courses, and desserts that include a variety of Traditional Turkish Food.

 

Walking Tour around Old City

You can walk around the old city in Istanbul and stop at several places to try Turkish cuisine from street vendors as well as several eateries. There are plenty of street vendors in the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia compound. Don’t forget to have a Simit with Nutella.

Balat Tour

Balat has a colorful and old charm. It has several cafes with rustic vibes. Traditional coffee served in traditional cups is a must-try.

Turkish Breakfast Food Tour

Turkish breakfast has a large variety of Turkish snacks and dishes. There are many restaurants that serve a full-fledged Turkish breakfast.

An Evening at Taksim Square

You can spend an evening at Taksim Square. It’s a vibrant place with lots of shops where you can try several savory and sweet food items. This place is especially good for kebabs and doner. From here, you can walk around Istiklal Street to Galata Tower and enjoy Turkish cuisine all along the way.

Conclusion

Turkish food is simple yet full of flavors. The richness of Turkish cuisine and its diversity make it stand out. While you won’t be able to taste everything on your trip, these ten foods are essential for experiencing the culinary essence of Turkey.

This blog is written by Basar Shah and the views are author’s own.

For more updates follow @basarshah on Instagram.