Do you have a passion for Turkish cuisine? Here are the top Turkish dishes you should try making at home.
Photo by Gül Işık
This unique style of cooking offers an exciting combination of flavors and techniques from numerous countries, cultures, and regions. From eye-catching appetizers to hearty main dishes and delicious desserts, there is no shortage of dishes to explore! It’s time to take a closer look at some of the most popular and delicious Turkish meals you can make in your home.
Turkish bagels
These chewy, fluffy bagels are a staple of Turkish cuisine. They’re traditionally boiled in salted water before being baked until golden brown. Serve with melted butter and honey for the perfect breakfast or snack. Additionally, simit a Turkish cult pastry is a delicious street food made with a dough of flour, water, yeast, and sesame seeds. If you don’t have time to make your own, a store-bought version is also available. While simit is usually eaten plain, it can also be served with jam or cheese.
Köfte
Köfte, or Turkish meatballs, are a beloved dish across the country. The ingredients for köfte vary depending on the region – generally speaking, it includes ground beef, lamb, or both mixed with herbs and spices like mint, parsley, cumin, and paprika. It’s usually served as an appetizer or main course with rice or bulgur, but can also be served alone. Köfte is best when served hot; they can be fried in oil or cooked over charcoal to give them an extra smoky flavor. For those looking for a healthier version of köfte at home, try baking them instead! Just remember – no matter how you make your köfte, it’s sure to be delicious.
Turkish pizza (pide)
Turkish pizza, or “pide,” is a savory dish that’s similar to the Italian version. The dough is made with flour, egg, tomato paste, and water, then filled with ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, onions, and peppers. It’s usually served as a main course but can also be enjoyed as an appetizer. To make this simple yet delicious meal in your own home kitchen, roll out the dough and add your desired fillings to the center before baking in the oven for about 20 minutes. Enjoy warm topped with herbs and spices for a taste of Turkey!
Kebabs
Kebabs are one of the most popular Turkish dishes you can make at home. They’re typically served with chopped tomatoes, onions, peppers, and flatbreads or rice. For the best results when making kebabs, try marinating your meat overnight in a flavoring like a chili paste, garlic, and paprika. Grill or bake them in the oven for an authentic taste that’ll remind you of Turkey! You can also add some cuts of zucchini, eggplant, or other vegetables to create a vegetarian version as well. While kebabs are traditionally served with flatbread, you can also serve them alongside a salad for a healthier version. Enjoy your homemade Turkish kebabs with a side of yogurt sauce or tahini for an extra layer of flavor.
Turkish coffee
Turkish coffee is the country’s national drink, and it’s made from finely ground coffee beans. This strong brew is usually served without milk or sugar, with a few grounds left in the cup. The perfect way to start your day! To make your own Turkish coffee, boil water with some fresh-ground coffee beans until it reaches a rolling boil. Remove from heat and add more ground beans according to personal taste; stir briefly before pouring into demitasse cups. Let sit for a few minutes before serving. For added flavor and sweetness, you can add cardamom or cinnamon to the top of the cup before serving.
Baklava
A classic dessert of the Middle East, Baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and nuts. It’s usually served drizzled in honey syrup or sprinkled with powdered sugar. It can be time-consuming to make at home, but it’s worth the effort for its delicate flavor and light texture. Enjoy this flaky treat hot out of the oven to get its signature crunchy exterior and warm, gooey interior.
Making Turkish dishes at home is a great way to bring the flavors of Turkey into your own kitchen. From savory köfte and pide to sweet baklava, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a decadent dessert, these top Turkish dishes are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and you’ll see why Turkish cuisine is so popular around the world!