Small dumplings filled with seasoned meat, served with yogurt and spices. Originating among Turkic nomads in Central Asia, it reached Turkey through the Silk Road, adapting to local tastes. Evolving into delicate dumplings, manti gained cultural significance—enjoyed at celebrations, prepared meticulously, a Turkish culinary heritage. According to legend, skilled Turkish housewives can craft them so...

Yaprak Sarma, a cherished dish in Turkey, boasts a history dating back millennia. Stemming from ancient Anatolia and Mesopotamia, the practice of wrapping and stuffing vine leaves originated as a way to preserve seasonal harvests. Over time, diverse cultures enriched the dish, and Ottoman influence refined its flavors. Today, Yaprak Sarma symbolizes both culinary artistry and a connection to Turkey's rich...

The concept of halva can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia and Persia, where it was initially prepared as a nutritious and energy-rich food. Over time, this delicacy reached the regions constituting modern-day Turkey. During the Ottoman Empire, halva gained prominence in Turkish cuisine. It became a staple dessert enjoyed by people from all walks of life, from the sultans in the palaces to the...

A World-Known Traditional Culinary Treasure - Baklava, the delectable sweet pastry, carries a fascinating history with uncertain origins. It is believed to have taken its modern form within the kitchens of Istanbul's Topkapı Palace. During Ramadan, the Sultan would ceremoniously present trays of baklava to the Janissaries, adding to its significance. The roots of baklava have been linked to Ancient Roman...

Sütlaç is one of the oldest Turkish desserts. The first food we meet as babies is milk, and then cow's milk takes its place. This may be why the first known desserts in history were milk-based. One of the most known and loved milk desserts is rice pudding. According to the "Uwa" recipe in Divan-ü Lügat-it Türk, after the rice is cooked, it is thrown into cold water. This is then filtered and sugar...

Turkish Simit, often referred to as a "sesame bagel," is a beloved culinary icon in Turkey. This circular bread ring is famous for its chewy texture, crisp crust, and generous coating of sesame seeds. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack on the bustling streets of Istanbul or as a delightful addition to a traditional Turkish breakfast spread, Simit offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Its...

Turkish soup "Mercimek" is a delightful dish made from lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Its origins date back centuries to the Middle East. The simplicity of preparation and the availability of ingredients have made it popular in Turkish cuisine. Family gatherings and holidays are closely associated with this soup, which has won over enthusiasts worldwide due to its unique taste and nutritional...

Menemen is a delightful Turkish breakfast dish that is commonly enjoyed alongside fresh bread. Its name is derived from a small town located in Izmir Province, where the dish is believed to have originated. This flavorful meal features a heavenly combination of scrambled eggs, ripe tomatoes, vibrant peppers, and a touch of aromatic spices. The harmonious blend of ingredients creates a satisfying and...

Turkish delight, known as "lokum" in Turkey, is a traditional sweet treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a popular confectionery made from sugar, starch, water, and various flavorings, often combined with nuts, dried fruits, or spices. The exact origins of Turkish delight are somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to have been created in Turkey during the 18th century or earlier. Here are...

Lahmacun, also known as Turkish pizza, is a traditional dish that has been around for centuries. The word lahmacun comes from the Arabic words “lahm” (meaning meat) and “aqun” (meaning dough). It is a thin, crispy dough topped with a mixture of minced meat, onion, garlic, chili, herbs and spices.  The story of lahmacun dates back to the Ottoman era, when the dish was created by a baker who...

2 bunch collard green 2 onions, chopped 1 ½ cup rice, washed and drained ½ lb ground beef 1 tsp tomato paste 1 tsp dried mint ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped ½ tsp pepper 1/3 cup canola oil 1 tsp salt to taste Hot water Wash the leaves several times to make sure they are all clean. Remove the center stalks from the leaves and cut the large leaves into three...

The Imam Bayıldı dish is one of the most beloved Turkish delicacies, and its origin is steeped in both religion and culinary tradition. There are two different theories as to why this meal is called Imam fainted.  The first theory states that an imam was so enamored with the taste of the dish that he fainted after eating it. It is believed that one of the ingredients, or the taste itself, may...