7 Iconic Local Turkish Dishes You Need to Taste When You Travel to Turkey

Explore the rich flavors of Turkey with these 7 iconic local Turkish dishes you need to taste. From savory kebabs to sweet baklava, discover the best Turkish food that captures the essence of this diverse culinary heritage.

Turkey, a country straddling two continents, boasts a rich and diverse culinary heritage that reflects its unique geographical and cultural blend. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil coastal towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, Turkish cuisine offers a mouth-watering array of flavors and textures. This guide takes you on a culinary journey through seven iconic local Turkish dishes you need to taste, showcasing the best of Turkish food and its deep-rooted traditions.

1. Kebabs: The Quintessential Turkish Grilled Delight

Kebabs are synonymous with Turkish cuisine, and each region in Turkey offers its own unique take on this classic dish. Whether cooked on a skewer, over an open flame, or slow-roasted on a spit, Turkish kebabs are a carnivore’s delight that you must savor.

Adana Kebab

Originating from the city of Adana in southern Turkey, Adana Kebab is a spicy and flavorful skewered meat dish made from minced lamb or beef mixed with red pepper flakes, onions, and a blend of spices. The meat is traditionally cooked over charcoal, imparting a smoky flavor that complements the dish’s spicy kick. It’s typically served with lavash bread, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, onions, and parsley.

Shish Kebab

Shish Kebab, another popular variant, consists of marinated cubes of meat (usually lamb or chicken) skewered and grilled to perfection. The marinade often includes yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and a blend of aromatic spices, which tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich flavors. Shish Kebab is commonly served with rice or bulgur and a side of grilled peppers and tomatoes.

Doner Kebab

Perhaps the most famous of all Turkish kebabs, Doner Kebab is made by stacking seasoned slices of meat (lamb, beef, or chicken) on a vertical rotisserie. As the meat cooks, it is shaved off in thin slices and served in a variety of ways, including in pita bread, on a plate with rice, or wrapped in a flatbread known as dürüm. Doner Kebab is a popular street food in Turkey and around the world, loved for its juicy, flavorful meat and versatility.

2. Mezes: Small Plates with Big Flavors

Mezes are an integral part of Turkish dining culture, consisting of a variety of small dishes that are served as appetizers or shared plates. These flavorful bites offer a perfect introduction to the diverse and vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine.

Hummus

Hummus is a creamy, savory dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It’s often garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a handful of chopped parsley. This beloved Middle Eastern dish is a staple on Turkish meze platters and is typically enjoyed with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Ezme

Ezme is a spicy and tangy salad made from finely chopped tomatoes, onions, peppers, and parsley, seasoned with pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, and a generous amount of red pepper flakes. This vibrant dish packs a punch of flavor and is often served as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats or as part of a meze spread.

Dolma

Dolma refers to a family of stuffed vegetable dishes, with grape leaves and bell peppers being the most common. Grape leaves are filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, currants, and herbs, while bell peppers are typically stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. Dolmas are usually served cold or at room temperature, drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

3. Pide: Turkish Pizza with a Twist

Pide, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients and baked until golden and crispy. This delicious dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike and can be found in bakeries and restaurants across Turkey.

Kuşbaşılı Pide

Kuşbaşılı Pide features finely chopped pieces of meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. The meat mixture is spread over the dough before baking, creating a flavorful and satisfying topping. The pide is often sprinkled with a handful of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving, adding a burst of freshness to the savory meat.

Peynirli Pide

For cheese lovers, Peynirli Pide is a must-try. This version is topped with a generous layer of Turkish cheese, such as beyaz peynir (a salty white cheese similar to feta) or kaşar (a mild, semi-hard cheese). The cheese melts and bubbles as the pide bakes, creating a rich and gooey topping that pairs perfectly with the crispy crust.

Sucuklu Pide

Sucuklu Pide features slices of sucuk, a spicy Turkish sausage made from ground beef or lamb and flavored with garlic and red pepper flakes. The sausage is arranged over the dough, often with a sprinkling of cheese, and baked until the sucuk is crispy and the cheese is melted. This pide is a flavorful and hearty option, perfect for meat lovers.

4. Baklava: The Sweet Essence of Turkey

Baklava is one of the most iconic Turkish desserts, known for its rich, sweet, and flaky layers. This delectable pastry is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for traditional sweets.

Traditional Baklava

Traditional baklava is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a filling of finely chopped nuts (typically pistachios, walnuts, or almonds), and then drenching the layers with a fragrant syrup made from honey, sugar, and water. The pastry is baked until golden and crispy, and the syrup is poured over the hot baklava, allowing it to soak into the layers. The result is a sweet, sticky, and utterly delightful treat that is enjoyed across Turkey and the Middle East.

Chocolate Baklava

For a modern twist on the classic, try chocolate baklava. This version adds a layer of rich chocolate between the sheets of phyllo, creating a delicious combination of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors. The chocolate adds a decadent touch to the traditional baklava, making it a favorite among those who love the combination of chocolate and nuts.

Künefe

While not a traditional baklava, Künefe is another beloved Turkish dessert made with shredded phyllo dough (called kadayıf) and a filling of sweet, melted cheese. The dessert is baked until golden and crispy, then drizzled with a sweet syrup and often topped with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. The combination of crispy dough, sweet syrup, and gooey cheese creates a unique and indulgent dessert experience.

5. Manti: Turkish Dumplings with a Twist

Manti are small Turkish dumplings filled with seasoned ground meat (usually lamb or beef) and served with a variety of toppings and sauces. These delicate dumplings are a favorite comfort food in Turkey and are often enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer.

Classic Manti

Classic Turkish manti are filled with a mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices, then boiled or steamed until tender. The dumplings are typically served with a generous dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of melted butter infused with red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of sumac or dried mint. This dish is a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and creamy, tangy toppings, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Kayseri Manti

Originating from the city of Kayseri in central Turkey, Kayseri Manti are smaller than the classic version and are often filled with a spicier meat mixture. These tiny dumplings are usually served in a rich, tomato-based sauce, topped with a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of melted butter. The combination of the spicy filling and the tangy yogurt sauce creates a bold and flavorful dish.

Vegetarian Manti

For a vegetarian option, try manti filled with a mixture of spinach, cheese, or mushrooms. These dumplings offer a lighter and more delicate alternative to the meat-filled versions while still providing the same delicious flavors and textures. The vegetarian manti are often served with the same yogurt and butter toppings, creating a rich and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a lighter meal.

6. Lahmacun: The Turkish Flatbread Pizza

Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish flatbread pizza, is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices. This popular street food is enjoyed as a quick and tasty snack or a light meal.

Traditional Lahmacun

Traditional lahmacun is made by spreading a mixture of minced lamb or beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices over a thin, unleavened dough. This dough is then baked in a hot oven until crispy and golden brown. The result is a fragrant and savory flatbread that’s perfect for any time of day.

Toppings and Serving

Once baked, Lahmacun is traditionally topped with fresh parsley, sliced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s often rolled up and eaten as street food, making it convenient and satisfying for those on the go. Some variations include additional toppings like onions, lettuce, or a drizzle of tahini sauce, adding layers of flavor and texture to this already delicious dish.

7. Turkish Breakfast: A Feast of Flavors

Turkish breakfast, known as “kahvaltı,” is a leisurely affair that showcases a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients. It’s often considered the most important meal of the day in Turkey and is enjoyed with family and friends.

Spread of Delights

A typical Turkish breakfast spread includes an assortment of cheeses (such as beyaz peynir and kasar), olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh bread. It may also feature jams, honey, and kaymak (clotted cream) for a touch of sweetness. Eggs are prepared in various ways, from fried to scrambled with sucuk (spicy Turkish sausage) or mixed with vegetables like peppers and tomatoes. Menemen, a popular Turkish dish made from scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, is a must-try for breakfast enthusiasts.

Börek

Börek is a savory pastry made from thin layers of dough filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. It’s baked until golden and flaky, then served warm as part of a Turkish breakfast spread. This delicious pastry is enjoyed across Turkey and is often paired with a cup of Turkish tea or freshly brewed coffee, adding warmth and comfort to the morning meal.

Simit

Simit is a circular bread covered in sesame seeds, offering a crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. It’s a staple at Turkish breakfast tables and is often enjoyed plain or with a spread of butter and cheese. Street vendors across Turkey sell freshly baked simit, making it easy for locals and tourists alike to enjoy this beloved breakfast treat.

Conclusion

Exploring Turkey means not only experiencing its rich history and stunning landscapes but also indulging in its vibrant and diverse culinary traditions. From savory kebabs and flavorful mezes to indulgent desserts and hearty breakfast spreads, Turkish cuisine offers a feast for the senses that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re wandering through Istanbul’s bustling markets or relaxing on the shores of the Mediterranean, be sure to sample these seven iconic local Turkish dishes to truly savor the essence of Turkey.