Turkish Cities and Their Most Famous Local Dishes

Turkey has been the cradle of different civilisations for centuries, and this rich mosaic of history and culture is reflected in its cuisine. The unique flavours of each city have been shaped by the geography, history, and cultural fabric of that region. In this article, we will explore 10 different cities in Turkey and 10 special dishes associated with each city that leave a mark on the palate. So, what to eat in Turkey? What are the famous dishes of Turkey? And what is a must-try in Turkish cuisine? Let's explore together👇Istanbul is a metropolis that connects Asia and Europe and fascinates with its historical and cultural richness. With the cool waters of the Bosphorus, the historical peninsula, mosques and palaces, every corner tells a different story.Fish Sandwich Fish Sandwich, one of the symbols of Istanbul, is a common street delicacy, especially in Eminönü and around the Galata Bridge. Freshly caught fish such as mackerel or anchovies, are cooked on the grill and placed between crispy bread. It is served with onion, lettuce and lemon slices. This flavour reflects Istanbul's connection to the sea and street culture.Gaziantep is one of the first cities that comes to mind when it comes to gastronomy in Turkey. Included in the 'Creative Cities Network' by UNESCO, Gaziantep is known for its rich cuisine.Alinazik KebabAlinazik kebab is made with a base of roasted and mashed eggplant mixed with yoghurt and topped with cubed meat sautéed in butter. It is served with rice and roasted vegetables. This dish demonstrates Gaziantep cuisine's ability to skillfully combine meat and vegetables.Hatay is a city where different cultures live together and stands out with its rich history and cuisine. The warmth of the Mediterranean and the spicy flavours of the Middle East blend here.KünefeKünefe is a dessert prepared by placing unsalted cheese between thin wire kadayif, cooking it in butter and pouring syrup over it. It is served hot and usually topped with clotted cream or ice cream. In Hatay, künefe is cooked on special copper plates and over a wood fire, which adds a special depth to its flavour.Adana is known for its warm climate, fertile soil and rivers. It is also the birthplace of Turkey's most famous kebabs.Adana KebabAdana kebab is made of lamb and tail fat, ground with a special knife called armour, mixed with spices, skewered and barbecued. It is served with lavash, roasted peppers and tomatoes, and onion salad with sumac. This kebab is one of the best examples of Adana's delicious and spicy cuisine.Trabzon, the pearl of the Black Sea, is a city where green and blue meet, famous for its historical and natural beauties. Seafood, especially anchovies, is indispensable in Trabzon cuisine.Anchovy PanAnchovy pan is prepared by coating fresh anchovies in corn flour and frying them in a pan. It is usually served with lemon slices and onions. In Trabzon, anchovies are not just a fish, but a way of life.Konya was the capital of the Seljuk Empire and is a city rich in historical and cultural heritage. It is also known as the city of Mevlana.Meat BreadMeat bread is prepared by laying a mixture of minced meat, onion and spices on thinly rolled dough and baking it in a stone oven. It is similar to lahmacun, but longer and thinner. In Konya, meat bread is indispensable for lunch.Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is known for its historical and natural beauties. It is also one of Turkey's most important industrial cities.Iskender KebabIskender kebab is prepared by laying thinly sliced doner meat on buttered pita bread slices and pouring tomato sauce and melted butter over it. It is served with yoghurt. This flavour was invented by İskender Efendi in Bursa in the 19th century.Kayseri is one of the important cities of Central Anatolia. Its location on the historical Silk Road has enriched it in terms of trade and culture.MantiKayseri manti is prepared by placing minced meat inside small square-shaped dough and closing it in the shape of a bundle. After being boiled, it is served with yoghurt and tomato paste heated in butter. The small size of the manti in Kayseri is a sign of mastery.Diyarbakır is one of the most important cities in Southeastern Anatolia with its historic city walls, cultural heritage and rich cuisine.Stuffed RibsStuffed ribs are prepared by stuffing lamb ribs with rice, spices, almonds and blackcurrants and cooking them in the oven for a long time. This dish is especially served on special occasions such as weddings and festivals and reflects the richness of Diyarbakır cuisine.Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean, is known for its sea, sun and modern lifestyle. It is also a city where different cultures live together.BoyozBoyoz is a pastry unique to Izmir, prepared by kneading dough rolled out in layers with oil and baking it in the oven. It is usually eaten plain, but there are also versions with cheese or spinach. It is eaten for breakfast with a boiled egg and tea. Boyoz is one of the street delicacies of Izmir.

Discover Turkey Through Taste: 10 Cities and Their Most Famous Local Dishes

1. Istanbul - Fish Sandwich / Balık Ekmek

2. Gaziantep - Alinazik Kebab

3. Hatay - Kunefe

4. Adana - Adana Kebab

5. Trabzon - Anchovy Tava

6. Konya - Meat Bread

7. Bursa - Iskender Kebab

8. Kayseri - Manti

9. Diyarbakır - Stuffed Ribs

10. Izmir - Boyoz

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