Turkish food is influenced by many areas of the world including Central Asia, Balkan, and Caucasian cuisines.
The delicious foods from Turkey will make your trip worthwhile, so make sure you arrive with an empty stomach and a mindset to try new things.
Here are the top 11 foods in Turkey that you can't miss during the trip.
Manti (Turkish Ravioli)
Try these lamb and beef stuffed dumplings that are seen throughout Turkey.
You can top it off with yogurt and spice-laden sauce or try it on its own! It's uniquely savory and will leave you wanting more.
2. Meze
Are you a fan of dips? This is a must-have appetizer that you should have before you eat a full meal. The assortment of dishes includes cheeses, fried calamari, spreads, and more and is also paired with bread. It's a little bit of everything if you're unsure of what to pick.
3. Kumpir
This mouthwatering dish is a must if you're a potato lover. Kumpir is a Turkish baked potato with a soft, fluffy interior mixed with butter and cheese.
There are also several toppings you can choose from including different meats, cheeses, veggies, and sauces.
4. Menemen
When was the last time you had a Turkish-style breakfast? Have yourself a standard, local Turkish breakfast with Menemen, which are spicy eggs cooked with tomato, peppers, and various spices. It's best eaten with bread that comes on the side.
5. Lahmacun
If you're an avid pizza eater, don't leave Turkey without trying Lahmacun. This infamous thin crust pizza is topped with tomatoes, peppers, minced meat, and herbs.
But there’s a twist: It may be considered pizza, however, there's no cheese. Many people eat it rolled up and in a burrito style.
6. Baklava
Turkish Baklava has a rich, sweet flavor that'll keep you coming back for more. This flaky and delectable dessert pastry is filled with chopped nuts and sweetened, held together with syrup or honey. If you have a sweet tooth, definitely go enjoy baklava as it's found all over Turkey.
7. Iskender Kebap
Known as the "king of Turkish kebabs", this kebab is made with finely cut grilled lamb covered with hot tomato sauce over pita bread pieces, and then topped with melted butter and yogurt. It's a savory specialty in the Bursa region but can also be found throughout Turkey.
8. Balik Ekmek
Some of the best foods in Turkey are the local street foods, and Balik Ekmek makes the list. This fresh fish sandwich is usually grilled but can be fried too.
It's mixed with several vegetables inside a pita-like Turkish bread, so make sure to grab one on the go if you're short on time.
9. Gözleme
This traditional Turkish dish consists of a pastry dough filled with cheese, vegetables, and minced meat, usually cooked over a griddle. Gözleme is considered a snack or can be eaten as breakfast.
You can usually spot people selling them in street vendors.
10. Imam Bayildi
Eggplants are a staple in Turkey, and Imam Bayildi is one of the more popular dishes that include them.
It's a whole eggplant dish stuffed with tomatoes, garlic, and onion, simmered in olive oil. It's a great snack or a part of mezes before a full lunch/dinner!
11. Turkish delight
Turkish delight is surely a delight as it's one of the most popular desserts in Turkey. This delicious, chewy treat has various flavors of rosewater, lemon, bergamot, and more.
It's dusted with icing sugar and melts in your mouth as you chew.
If you're planning on stopping at Grand Bazaar, there's a huge variety of them so make sure to grab a box to enjoy back at home.
Is your mouth watering yet? Learn about the culture, customs, and the Turkish way of life through these culture-infused cuisines.
Be sure to check out these top foods and many more Turkish delectables that'll take you on a foodie's adventure.
Planning a culinary adventure to Turkey? Contact Always Epic Vacations to help you craft the perfect itinerary that includes all the savory delights and sweet treats Turkey has to offer. From the stuffed manti dumplings to the decadent baklava and vibrant street food scenes, let Always Epic Vacations guide you through a taste of Turkey that you'll never forget. Get ready to explore the rich flavors and cultural tapestry of this incredible country. Reach out today and take the first step towards a food lover's dream trip!
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