Turkey has one of the most diverse cuisines in the world, which is why it’s no surprise that there are so many great restaurants to choose from. But, because this country’s cuisine is so complex and varied – with different regions producing different styles of food – choosing where to eat can be a daunting … Read more
In the world of winemaking, Turkey’s potential is not quite yet realized. Despite being the sixth-largest grape producer, Turkey is only the 43rd largest producer of wine. It’s a shame that, with 70 million liters of wine being produced, only about 2% of its grapes become wine. It’s a sad statistic considering the number of … Read more
Ottoman cuisine is a delicious and unique blend of Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Western influences. It has been influenced by the empires that have ruled over it, such as the Ottoman Empire, Seljuk Sultanate of Rum, Byzantine Empire, and many others. One could provide an anthropological examination as to why the Ottoman dishes are so … Read more
It’s no coincidence that occidental classics like C.S. Lewis’s ‘The Lion, The Witch, The Wardrobe’ mention Turkish delights as a bribe. Nor is it any wonder that travel-writer consistently launch into the exotic fantasy of desserts from this section of the world. Perhaps it is the result of the mingling of various cultures in the … Read more
That sweet sizzling sound as the meat hits the grill. If your inner carnivore is craving lusciously tender meat, then köfte is the dish for you. The köfte is a type of meatball/meat patty that’s been served so long in this country that it has its spot in the hall of fame of Turkish cuisine, … Read more
Tourists would be forgiven for thinking that Turkey’s only offering is the kebab. Turkish cuisine has a selection of various dishes that’ll please both carnivores and vegans, and the Turkish mezes are only one of them. Like Spanish Tapas, there are both hot and cold appetizers to whet one’s appetite. That said, the meze is … Read more
First published: November 18, 2013 – Updated: September 25, 2021 Iskender kebab is one of the most popular meat dishes of Turkey, typically enjoyed in the north-western areas of the country. It dates back to the early 19th century and is so-named after its original creator, Iskender Efendi. It can also be known in other … Read more
First published: May 17, 2013 – Updated: September 25, 2021 Who doesn’t like fresh fish? One of Istanbul’s favorite lunchtime street foods to munch on is balık ekmek or ‘fish sandwich’. Found readily in the suburbs bordering the Golden Horn and the Bosphorous, balık ekmek is a delicious sandwich priced at between only 10 Turkish … Read more
First published: November 14, 2013 – Updated: September 25, 2021 Aşure (or, Noah’s Pudding) is a famous Turkish dessert, prepared on the Day of Aşure. Its name is derived from the word “Ashura”, which means “tenth” in Arabic. The Day of Aşure follows the Islamic holy calendar, and falls on the Tenth of Muharrem, during … Read more
First published: June 1, 2014 – Updated: September 25, 2021 The sweet taste of Katmer. When we ask our guests to name their favorite foods from their walks with us, one food pops up again and again… and again…. and again! But it’s no wonder! What is deliciously flaky… … indescribably indulgent… … and quintessentially … Read more