What to Eat and Drink in Istanbul

Introduction
Turkish Kebap
1. What Makes Turkish Kebap So Special?
2. Varieties of Kebap
Doner
1. How Is Doner Different from Kebap?
2. Doner Serving Styles
Lahmacun
1. What Is Lahmacun and How Is It Made?
2. How to Enjoy Lahmacun?
Turkish Mezes (Appetizers)
1. What Are Turkish Mezes and Why Are They Popular?
2. Popular Mezes
Turkish Coffee
1. Why Is Turkish Coffee So Unique?
2. Making Turkish Coffee
Tea
1. How Is Turkish Tea Traditionally Served?
2. Tea Culture in Turkey
Ayran
1. What Are the Health Benefits of Ayran?
2. Benefits of Ayran
The Final Word

1. Introduction

Turkish cuisine is a delicious and varied fusion of different flavors and cultures, spanning from the Ottoman Empire to the Mediterranean Sea. With a rich history and tradition, Turkish food has become a staple of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, renowned for its use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. The culinary diversity in Turkey reflects its rich cultural tapestry, offering something for every palate. From savory dishes to sweet treats, Turkish food promises a delightful experience that goes beyond mere sustenance.

2. Turkish Kebap

One of the most iconic and popular dishes in Turkish cuisine is the kebap. Kebap, or kebab as it's known in the West, is a dish that consists of meat, vegetables, and spices cooked over a fire. The meat can be lamb, beef, or chicken, and it's often marinated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and olive oil. The result is delicious and tender meat that's perfect for any occasion.

2.1. What Makes Turkish Kebap So Special?

Turkish kebap stands out due to its unique blend of spices, traditional cooking methods, and the quality of meat used. The marinade typically includes ingredients like garlic, cumin, paprika, and oregano, which impart a rich and complex flavor to the meat. The slow cooking process over an open flame ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender.

2.2. Varieties of Kebap

Adana Kebap: Originating from the city of Adana, this kebap is made with minced lamb mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
Shish Kebap: Skewered and grilled cubes of meat, usually served with vegetables.
Iskender Kebap: Thinly sliced lamb or beef served over pieces of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce and melted butter, and served with yogurt.

Each variety offers a unique taste experience, reflecting the regional differences in Turkish cuisine. Whether you prefer the spicy kick of Adana or the buttery richness of Iskender, there's a kebap to satisfy every taste bud.

3. Doner

Another popular Turkish dish is doner, which is similar to kebap but consists of thin slices of meat, often lamb or beef, that are stacked together and cooked on a vertical spit. Doner is then sliced thinly and served with a variety of accompaniments, such as salad, pita bread, and sauces like tzatziki or hot sauce.

3.1. How Is Doner Different from Kebap?

Doner differs from kebap in its preparation and serving style. While kebap typically involves skewered meat cooked horizontally, doner meat is stacked vertically and slowly roasted on a rotating spit. This method allows the outer layer to cook evenly, while the inside remains juicy. The meat is shaved off as it cooks, ensuring thin, tender slices with a crispy exterior.

3.2. Doner Serving Styles

Doner Wrap (Dürüm): Thinly sliced meat wrapped in a flatbread with vegetables and sauces.
Doner Plate (Porsiyon): Served on a plate with rice or bulgur, salad, and sometimes fries.
Doner Sandwich: Meat served in a sandwich bun, often with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.

Doner is not only a popular street food but also a beloved fast food option across Turkey and around the world. Its versatility and delicious flavors make it a must-try for anyone exploring Turkish cuisine.

4. Lahmacun

Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. It's often served as a snack or as an appetizer, and it's a perfect option for those who want to enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine.

4.1. What Is Lahmacun and How Is It Made?

Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is made by spreading a thin layer of minced meat mixture over a round piece of dough. The meat mixture usually includes ground lamb or beef, finely chopped vegetables, and a blend of spices like cumin and paprika. The prepared lahmacun is then baked in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the topping is cooked through.

4.2. How to Enjoy Lahmacun?

Lahmacun is typically served with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley. Some people like to add thinly sliced onions and tomatoes on top before rolling it up and eating it like a wrap. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal or a quick snack.

5. Turkish Mezes (Appetizers)

Mezes are small dishes that are served as appetizers before the main course. They can be hot or cold, and they often feature vegetables, seafood, legumes, and dairy products. Mezes are perfect for sharing and offer a great way to sample a variety of flavors.

5.1. What Are Turkish Mezes and Why Are They Popular?

Turkish mezes are popular for their variety and the opportunity they provide to taste a range of different flavors in one meal. They are usually served in small portions, making them perfect for sharing and trying multiple dishes. Mezes are often enjoyed with rakı, a traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage, and are a staple at social gatherings and celebrations.

5.2. Popular Mezes

Hummus: A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Ezme: A spicy tomato and pepper salad with garlic and parsley.
Haydari: A thick yogurt dip with garlic, dill, and walnuts.

Each meze brings its own unique taste and texture, making the meze experience a delightful and integral part of Turkish dining.

6. Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee is more than just a drink; it's an experience. Made with finely ground coffee beans and brewed in a special pot called a cezve, Turkish coffee is known for its strong flavor and rich aroma. It's typically served in small cups with a side of Turkish delight or a piece of chocolate.

6.1. Why Is Turkish Coffee So Unique?

Turkish coffee is unique due to its preparation method and the fine grind of the coffee beans. The coffee is not filtered, so the grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, creating a thick, strong brew. The brewing process involves slowly heating the coffee in the cezve until it reaches a frothy consistency, ensuring that the flavors are fully developed. This method of brewing also allows for a richer and more intense coffee experience.

6.2. Making Turkish Coffee

Add water and sugar (if desired) to the cezve and stir to dissolve.
Add finely ground coffee and stir gently to mix.
Heat the cezve over low heat, allowing the coffee to foam up slowly.
Once the coffee foams, remove it from the heat and let the foam settle. Repeat this step once or twice.
Pour the coffee into a cup, including the foam, and let the grounds settle before drinking.

The ritual of making and drinking Turkish coffee is a cherished tradition, often accompanied by the practice of coffee fortune-telling, where the patterns left by the coffee grounds are interpreted for insights and predictions.

7. Tea

Tea is the most popular drink in Turkey, enjoyed by people of all ages throughout the day. Turkish tea is typically brewed in a double teapot called a çaydanlık and served in small, tulip-shaped glasses. The tea is strong, flavorful, and often sweetened with sugar.

7.1. How Is Turkish Tea Traditionally Served?

Turkish tea is traditionally served in small, clear glasses that showcase its rich, deep color. The tea is brewed using a çaydanlık, which consists of two stacked teapots. The lower pot is filled with water and brought to a boil, while the upper pot holds the loose tea leaves. Hot water from the lower pot is poured into the upper pot to brew a concentrated tea, which is then diluted with additional hot water to the desired strength when served.

7.2. Tea Culture in Turkey

Tea is an integral part of Turkish culture and hospitality. It is offered to guests as a sign of welcome and is enjoyed in various social settings, from casual gatherings to business meetings. The act of drinking tea is often accompanied by conversation, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere. Whether in a bustling tea house or a quiet home, the ritual of sharing tea fosters connections and strengthens relationships.

8. Ayran

Ayran is a traditional Turkish yogurt drink made by mixing yogurt with water and a pinch of salt. It's a refreshing and healthy beverage, perfect for hot days and often enjoyed with savory dishes like kebap and doner.

8.1. What Are the Health Benefits of Ayran?

Ayran is rich in probiotics, which promote a healthy gut and aid digestion. It's also a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. The hydrating properties of ayran make it an excellent choice for staying cool and refreshed, especially during the hot summer months.

8.2. Benefits of Ayran

Hydration: Ayran helps to keep the body hydrated, especially in hot weather.
Digestive Health: The probiotics in ayran support a healthy digestive system.
Bone Health: The calcium in ayran contributes to strong bones and teeth.

Ayran's combination of taste and health benefits makes it a popular choice among both locals and visitors in Turkey.

The Final Word

Exploring Turkish cuisine is a journey through rich flavors and cultural heritage. From the hearty meat dishes and sweets to the refreshing beverages like ayran and tea, each element of Turkish food tells a story. Whether you're dining in Turkey or trying out recipes at home, the diversity and depth of Turkish cuisine are sure to leave a lasting impression.