14 Delicious Dishes of Turkey You Must Try

Food has a unique ability to nourish the soul like nothing else. This is why it holds a special place in everyone's heart, whether at home or on a staycation.

Imagine enjoying mouthwatering dishes while exploring the breathtaking sights of Turkey—it's the perfect combination.

The world began to truly appreciate Turkish cuisine after the tourism boom in the 1980s. However, it was during the Ottoman Empire, which began its reign in the early 1400s, that a rich culinary tradition was established, captivating the world even today.

Turkey, straddling continents and cultures, is profoundly influenced by Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This transcontinental blend makes modern-day Turkey a picturesque destination where the cuisine is as delightful as the scenery.

Turkish cuisine is largely shaped by Ottoman culture, but nature has also played a significant role. The country's ideal climate and landscape support abundant plant and animal life. Additionally, perfect road and river routes connecting Turkey to the rest of the world have brought in exotic ingredients from far and wide.

Here are the top 14 dishes in Turkey that will have you licking your plate clean!

# Simit – Turkish Pretzel

Simit is a quintessential Turkish breakfast item, best enjoyed with a cup of tea. This circular bread, crusted with various seeds, varies slightly in crispness, size, and color depending on the region. Available across Turkey in bakeries, cafes, metros, and from street vendors, it is one of the most affordable yet distinctive Turkish street foods. Enjoy it plain or with preserves like jam or Nutella. Simit is often referred to as the Turkish bagel in other parts of the world.

# Turkish Apple Tea – Unique Brew

Tea is a cornerstone of Turkish hospitality, found brewing everywhere in the country. However, Turkish apple tea stands out with its unique flavor, sure to tantalize your taste buds. This potent appetizer can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

# Ezogelin Soup – Zesty Tomato Soup

Every dish has a story, and Ezogelin Soup is no exception. Legend says it was created by Ezo, an unhappy bride trying to impress her mother-in-law. She concocted a zesty soup with red lentils, hot tomato paste, grated onions, and tomatoes, garnished with dried mint and chili flakes. This emotional recipe remains a favorite, especially for brides-to-be in the village of Gaziantep. Try it to delight your taste buds, if not someone else’s!

# Menemen – Veggie Shakshuka

Menemen, a traditional Turkish breakfast, is similar to shakshuka. Made with eggs and various vegetables sautéed in olive oil and lightly spiced with black and red pepper, it’s served with a slice of bread. This egg dish is the perfect way to kickstart your day.

# Gözleme – Turkish Crepe

One of the easiest and must-try Turkish delicacies, Gözleme is made by rolling out paper-thin dough, filling it with minced beef or spinach, adding a generous amount of salty cheese, and then cooking it on a hot griddle. This fluffy, crispy snack is perfect for eating on the go.

# Mantı – Turkish Ravioli

Imagine Italian ravioli without pasta! Mantı is made of dough filled with beef or minced lamb, about a third of the size of traditional ravioli. Boiled and then topped with garlic yogurt and chili flakes, this dish is best when homemade or handmade, rather than store-bought.

# Kumpir – Baked Potato

Kumpir is a popular Turkish street food, featuring a baked potato that is crisp on the outside and fluffy inside. It’s generously stuffed with butter and kasar cheese, then topped with a variety of ingredients like sweet corn, ketchup, yogurt, pickles, and sausages. It’s a rich feast at a modest price.

# Kofte – Turkish Meatballs

A staple of Ottoman cuisine, Kofte are handmade meatballs, often containing a mix of meats and vegetables. They are typically fried and served with hot red pepper sauce for a zesty flavor. These bite-sized delights are a must-try.

# Perde Pilav – A Curtain of Dough

Perde Pilav is a dish of buttery dough filled with rice, almonds, pine nuts, currants, and optionally, chicken. Baked and seasoned with salt, oregano, and pepper, it is often served at weddings and family gatherings. This auspicious dish is a symbol of good fortune for new homeowners.

# Mezze or Meze – Assortments with Fish

Mezze is a selection of small dishes served as appetizers or with drinks, especially in the evening. It includes a mix of salads, fish, and sautéed vegetables, accompanied by warm pide and white cheese. Mezze is a delightful way to start an evening meal in Turkey.

# Kebap – Skewered Meat

The most famous Turkish dish, Kebap, comes in over 30 varieties, featuring both meat and vegetable options. Skewered and cooked over a fire, you can try şiş kebap for a less spicy option, or Iskender kebap, which is served with rich yogurt, tangy tomato sauce, and melted butter. Kebaps promise a burst of flavors, enhanced by their smoky, charcoal aroma.

# Baklava – Turkish Pastries

Turkish sweets are legendary, and Baklava is a standout. This dessert features layers of buttery pastry filled with ground pistachios, sweetened with sugar or honey syrup. It is a classic and iconic Turkish dish, particularly renowned in Gaziantep, a village in southeast Turkey known for its exceptional baklava.

# Dondurma – Chewable, Battered Ice Cream

Dondurma is a unique Turkish ice cream that doesn’t melt easily, thanks to special ingredients that make it sweet and chewy. Often sold by vendors who put on a playful show, this ice cream is a must-try when in Turkey.

# Turkish Delights – Flavorful Bites

No visit to Turkey is complete without tasting Turkish Delights, or Lokum. These bite-sized confections come in various flavors, blending dates, pistachios, rose water, and other ingredients. They are a mouthwatering treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.