Turkey
The sprawling metropolises of Ankara and Istanbul are a must-see for any traveler. Both are often times seen as the cultural epicenters of the country, taking travelers on a journey of discovery through ancient Ottoman and Greco-Roman ruins, galleries filled with colorful artwork, and bustling street markets with an array of succulent dishes to sample.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Turkey's pristine coastline is a perfect refuge. Lapped by the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by majestic mountains, the Turkish Riviera is a balm for the soul. Sun-bathed beaches, crystal blue waters, and romantic sunsets are perfect for lounging, swimming, and soaking in the beauty of the area.
Adventure seekers can explore the wonders of Cappadocia, where stunningly eroded rocks and fairy chimneys have been forming for centuries. Hot air balloon rides give visitors the chance to take in the landscape from a bird’s eye view and ethereal caves carved out of the surrounding cliffs are a must-see for anyone who wants to really experience the rich history of the area.
Turkey also boasts an array of gastronomic delights for visitors to enjoy. From spicy kebabs and succulent borek pastries to mouth-watering mezze platters, this country’s cuisine is sure to tantalize the taste buds. Whether one is looking for a quick bite or a leisurely four course meal, there is something to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
In sum, Turkey is a destination that remains shrouded in mystery, but one that should not be missed. Its mix of ancient ruins and modern wonders will leave visitors swooning and inspired. A trip to this culturally-rich land is sure to be a journey to remember.
Turkey dishes
A selection of Turkey dishes.
Hot Brown
In Louisville, Kentucky, the Hot Brown is a classic dish that's been around since 1926. The Hot Brown is a tasty and savory open-faced sandwich made with turkey, bacon, tomato, and mornay sauce. But this dish is so much more than just crunchy bacon and buttery sauce. It's oozing with flavor, warm and comforting, and the perfect comfort food to enjoy on a chilly evening.
Hot Brown
Pilgrim (sandwich)
If you're looking for a new and exciting sandwich to tantalize your taste buds and introduce some new flavors into your diet, the Pilgrim-style sandwich is sure to become a favorite. This unique sandwich combines savory ingredients with a hint of sweetness and a surprising crunchy texture.
Pilgrim (sandwich)
Taiwanese turkey rice
When it comes to sumptuous and savory recipes, Taiwanese turkey rice is a classic dish that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies hunger. This comforting meal is made up of cooked white rice filled with succulent pieces of minced turkey, onions, and mushrooms. The ingredients are seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, and other spices to create an umami flavor that is sure to hit the spot.
Taiwanese turkey rice
Turkey bacon
Ah, turkey bacon-- the meat-free alternative to bacon that has been a staple of breakfast since its invention in the late 1950s. Essentially processed turkey formed into a bacon-like shape and typically coated in various seasonings, turkey bacon is a viable option for those who want to partake in the gluttonous pleasures of bacon without the same levels of saturated fat found in its pork counterpart.
Turkey bacon
Turkey
like: trope, succulent, lauded
Once widely lauded as the home of some of the most succulent and most beloved cuisine in the world, Turkey is a unique melding of various cultures’ culinary influences. With the right pairings and dishes, you can create an unforgettable, exciting, and truly unique Turkish dining experience.
One of the most iconic Turkish dishes is Çoban Salatası, or Shepherd’s Salad. This simple yet delicious mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and dressing is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of Turkish flavors. Dish it up with some Kebab, or grilled meat seasoned with spices, for a classic pairing. And don’t forget about the bread – flatbreads like Pide, topped with ground beef and mozzarella, are a popular Turkish choice.
Baked dishes are also popular in Turkey; Macedonian Borek, for example, is a pastry filled with vegetables, cheese, and herbs. It pairs perfectly with the Turkish coffee, made from beans roasted and finely powdered, then steeped in boiling water. Of course, there’s also the traditional Baklava, its layers of phyllo dough, honey syrup, and nuts making it a sweet, indulgent treat that’s always a crowd pleaser.
Turkish soups are also a must-try. Lentil soup is a hearty dish that is full of flavor and nutrition, while yogurt-based soups such as İşkembe are a rich and creamy delight. Street foods are always popular in Turkey and the İskender kebab, a Laz-Turkish dish, has become a tourist favorite. This dish features a bed of pita topped with marinated meat and served with yogurt and tomato sauce.
Finally, no Turkish meal would be complete without the country’s renowned desserts. Halva, a sesame-based confection enjoyed for centuries, makes for a delightful finish to any dinner. Künefe, with its crunchy crust and warm cheese filling, is another classic Turkish treat.
With so many flavorful choices, it’s clear why Turkish cuisine is so highly lauded – and why visitors should seek out this special taste experience. Stroll through the streets of Istanbul and explore the diverse flavors of Turkey’s offerings in order to experience the best this culinary paradise has to offer.
History of Turkey
As a foodie, there's nothing quite as exciting as exploring the complexities and flavors of a great meal. But what about the history behind the dish? That's when things start to get interesting.
Take Turkish food for example. This cuisine is steeped in thousands of years of history, whose roots trace back to civilizations like the Ottoman Empire, which spread through the Mediterranean for centuries. With influences from the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa, Turkish cuisine is a perfect illustration of global cultural exchange.
From kebabs to baklava, Turkish food is deeply entrenched in the global palate. Though the exact origin of many of these dishes is unknown, its flavors are unmistakable. Whether enjoying a simple lahmacun (flatbread with minced meat) or a hearty dish of mantı (dumplings filled with ground beef), Turkish food provides a unique combination of spices, textures, and tastes.
The abundance of fresh produce in Turkey — such as eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, and onions — make it the perfect country to explore the nuances of its culinary repertoire. Sweet dishes like sütlaç (rice pudding) and savory dishes like menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes, peppers, and onions) also remain staples in Turkish cuisine.
But Turkish food isn’t just about the food itself — it’s about the culture and experience that come along with it. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the local tea houses that dot the coastline, each region of Turkey offers something special. Whether you’re seeking a traditional meze platter or a freshly-baked pide, it’s impossible to ignore the intricate flavors and aromas that convey the grandeur of this remarkable cuisine.
So if you’re looking to explore a world of historic flavors and traditional gastronomic delights, Turkish cuisine is bound to satisfy your culinary cravings.