Turkey, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has resulted in a diverse and vibrant cuisine influenced by various cultures and civilisations.
From the ancient Hittites to the illustrious Ottoman Empire, each era has left an indelible mark on Turkey’s culinary delights.
In the bustling streets of Istanbul, the enticing scent of spices waft in the air, beckoning food enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. As the sun sets over the Bosphorus, Turkey’s cuisine offers a sensory journey like no other.
Anatolian Region: A melting pot of flavours
The Anatolian region, nestled between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.
- Ingredients: Anatolian cuisine celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Aubergine, peppers, tomatoes, olives, figs, and pistachios have become integral to its dishes, adding vibrant colours, flavours, and textures.
- Cooking Techniques: From hearty kebabs to delicate pastries, Anatolian cuisine showcases a wide range of cooking techniques. Grilling, slow-cooking, and baking
- Regional Specialties:
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- Adana Kebab: skewers of minced meat seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection.
- Manti Dumplings: pockets of dough filled with spiced meat, served with yogurt and garlic-infused butter.
- Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and honey—a sweet delight that transcends borders.
Aegean Cuisine: The essence of sun, sea, and simplicity
The Aegean region, with its long coastline, offers a bounty of seafood, seasonal fruit, olives, herbs and wild green.
- Çılbır: Poached eggs atop garlicky yogurt, drizzled with chili-infused butter.
- Zeytinyağlı Enginar: Artichokes cooked in olive oil, a taste of the Aegean sun.
Black Sea Cuisine: Moist climates and robust dishes
The humid and rainy climate of the Black Sea region draws culinary influences from Slavic and Balkan cuisines and produces the nation’s tea leaves
- Hamsi: Anchovies, Black Sea staples, grilled or fried.
- Kuymak: Creamy cornmeal dish with cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.
Mediterranean Cuisine: Sun-kissed flavours
The Mediterranean region brings forth sun-kissed flavours seasonal ingredients:
- Meze: An array of small dishes—hummus, olives, stuffed grape leaves, and more.
- Lahmacun: Thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat and herbs.
Anatolian cuisine has gained international recognition, attracting food enthusiasts and travellers alike. Its vibrant flavours, artful presentation, and warm hospitality makes it unforgettable.