Turkey is a paradise for food lovers, and its street food scene is an essential part of its rich culinary tapestry. From savory bites to sweet treats, Turkish street food offers a wide array of flavors that cater to every palate. Here’s a guide to some must-try street foods and where to find them in Turkey.
1. Simit
What: Often referred to as the Turkish bagel, simit is a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Where: Found on almost every street corner in Istanbul, particularly around busy squares like Taksim and Sultanahmet.
2. Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich)
What: Freshly grilled fish, typically mackerel, served with lettuce, onions, and a squeeze of lemon in a crusty bread roll.
Where: Eminönü, near the Galata Bridge in Istanbul, is famous for its balık ekmek vendors.
3. Kokoreç
What: A delicacy made from lamb intestines, seasoned with spices, and grilled on a skewer. It’s chopped and served in a sandwich or on a plate.
Where: You can find kokoreç at stalls and small eateries throughout Izmir and Istanbul.
4. Lahmacun
What: Often called Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s usually rolled up with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Where: Popular in Gaziantep and Istanbul, especially in areas with a high concentration of traditional eateries.
5. Dürüm (Wraps)
What: Thin flatbread wraps filled with various ingredients like döner (rotating roast meat), chicken, or köfte (meatballs), along with vegetables and sauces.
Where: Available throughout Turkey, particularly in bustling areas like Istiklal Street in Istanbul and the old town of Ankara.
6. Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)
What: Mussels stuffed with spicy rice, pine nuts, and currants, typically eaten with a squeeze of lemon.
Where: Found in coastal cities like Izmir, Istanbul, and Bodrum, often sold by street vendors.
7. Kumpir
What: A giant baked potato stuffed with a variety of fillings like cheese, olives, sausages, corn, and more.
Where: The Ortaköy district in Istanbul is famous for its kumpir stalls.
8. Çiğ Köfte
What: Traditionally made from raw minced meat, modern versions use bulgur, tomatoes, and spices, shaped into small patties and served with lettuce wraps.
Where: Common in Adana and Urfa, as well as throughout Istanbul at specialized shops.
9. Gözleme
What: A traditional Turkish flatbread stuffed with various fillings like cheese, spinach, or minced meat, and cooked on a griddle.
Where: Markets and street fairs throughout Turkey, particularly in Ankara and Cappadocia.
10. Baklava
What: Layers of thin pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Where: While baklava is available everywhere, the best places are said to be in Gaziantep, which is renowned for its baklava.
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