Turkey is a country known for its rich and diverse cuisine, and the best way to experience it is through its street food. From savory meat dishes to sweet desserts, the streets of Turkey are filled with mouth-watering delicacies that will leave you wanting more. Join me on a journey through the streets of Turkey as I explore its most popular street foods.
Istanbul
Istanbul, the cultural capital of Turkey, is home to some of the most delicious street food in the country. The first stop on our journey is the iconic simit, a circular bread covered in sesame seeds. This crispy and chewy bread is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go.
Another must-try food in
Istanbul is the balik ekmek, a grilled fish sandwich. This sandwich is made
with fresh fish caught from the Bosphorus and served on a bun with lettuce,
tomatoes, and onions. For a sweet treat, head to the Eminönü district to try
some Turkish delight, a gelatinous candy flavored with rose water, lemon, or
pistachio.
Ankara
The capital city of
Ankara is known for its delicious kebabs. One of the most popular kebabs in the
city is the döner kebab, made with layers of meat that are slowly roasted on a
vertical spit. This delicious kebab is served in a wrap or on a plate with rice
and salad.
For a spicy snack, try
the acılı ezme, a spicy tomato and onion dip that is perfect with bread or
crackers. Another popular street food in Ankara is the kumpir, a baked potato
that is stuffed with a variety of toppings like cheese, vegetables, and meat.
Izmir
Izmir is a coastal city
known for its fresh seafood. One of the most popular street foods in Izmir is
the midye dolma, a stuffed mussel that is filled with rice, herbs, and spices.
These delicious mussels are served on a paper plate and are the perfect snack
to enjoy by the sea.
Another popular street
food in Izmir is the kokoreç, a dish made from lamb intestines that are wrapped
around sweetbreads, seasoned with spices, and grilled. The meat is then sliced
and served in a bread roll with tomatoes, onions, and parsley.
Antalya
Antalya is a popular
tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, and it's no surprise
that its street food scene is just as impressive as its natural beauty. The
first food to try in Antalya is the pide, a Turkish pizza that is topped with
cheese, meat, and vegetables.
For a sweet treat, try
the künefe, a dessert made with shredded phyllo dough that is layered with
cheese and soaked in a sweet syrup. The dessert is then topped with pistachios
and served warm.
The street food of Turkey is a feast for the senses, with its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and intoxicating aromas. From the crispy simit of Istanbul to the sweet künefe of Antalya, there is no shortage of delicious street foods to try in Turkey. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the street food scene is an essential part of experiencing Turkish culture. So pack your appetite and hit the streets of Turkey for a culinary adventure you won't forget!