15+ Turkish Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Turkish cuisine has rich flavors and diverse ingredients. Both beginners and seasoned cooks can recreate these delicious dishes with ease. From savory kebabs to sweet baklava, there is something to please everyone’s palate.

Exploring Turkish recipes opens up a world of culinary experiences. Many dishes use simple ingredients that are easy to find. Each recipe tells a story, reflecting the culture and traditions of this vibrant country.

1) Red Lentil Soup

Red lentil soup, or Mercimek Çorbası, is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine. It’s hearty, nutritious, and easy to prepare. This warm soup is perfect for chilly days and packed with flavor.

To make red lentil soup, you will need a few simple ingredients. You can enjoy it as a meal on its own or as a starter.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups red lentils
• 1 chopped onion
• 3 minced cloves of garlic
• 1 diced carrot
• 1 diced potato
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons red pepper paste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cups water or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, and cook until soft.
3. Stir in carrot and potato, and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add tomato paste and red pepper paste, and mix well.
5. Add lentils and water.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are soft.
7. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

2) Borek (Savory Pastry)

Borek is a delicious savory pastry found all over Turkey. It features flaky layers of dough filled with various ingredients. Common fillings include cheese, spinach, and ground meat.

Making borek is simple and fun. You can use store-bought phyllo dough to save time. The crispy layers combined with melted cheese or savory spices make it a favorite dish.

You can bake or fry borek, depending on your preference. Baking gives it a delightful crunch, while frying makes it extra crispy.

Ingredients

• 1 package of phyllo dough
• 200g cheese (like feta)
• 1 cup cooked spinach
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix cheese, spinach, egg, and milk in a bowl.
3. Layer phyllo sheets in a baking dish, brushing each with oil.
4. Add the filling and fold the phyllo over.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy your borek!

3) Kısır (Turkish Bulgur Salad)

Kısır is a refreshing Turkish salad made with bulgur wheat. It’s popular for its tasty blend of fresh ingredients. You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal.

To make Kısır, you need fine bulgur, which cooks quickly. Chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs like parsley add color and flavor. A hint of chili gives it a nice kick.

This salad is healthy and perfect for warm days. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fine bulgur
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 large diced tomato
• 1 diced cucumber
• 4 chopped spring onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chili flakes

Cooking Instructions

1. Place the bulgur in a bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Cover and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Fluff the bulgur with a fork once it’s soft.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, cucumber, spring onions, and parsley to the bulgur.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
5. Mix everything well and serve chilled or at room temperature.

4) Döner Kebab

Döner kebab is a popular Turkish dish made from spiced meat. You can use beef or lamb, marinated to enhance its rich flavors. This dish is often served with warm bread, fresh vegetables, and delicious sauces.

To make a traditional döner kebab, slice the meat thinly and cook it on a vertical rotisserie. This method helps the meat to stay juicy while giving it a nice crispy edge. You can also grill the meat at home if a rotisserie isn’t available.

You will love how versatile döner kebab is! Serve it in a sandwich, on a plate with rice, or even in a wrap.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef or lamb
• 1 grated onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine grated onion, minced garlic, yogurt, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and spices.
2. Add the meat to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C).
4. Cook the marinated meat until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Slice the meat thinly and serve with bread and desired toppings.

5) İmam Bayıldı (Stuffed Eggplant)

İmam Bayıldı is a classic Turkish dish made with eggplants. You’ll love the way they are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of onions, tomatoes, and garlic. The dish is usually cooked in olive oil, making it rich and tasty.

To begin, you’ll roast the eggplants until they are tender. Then, you’ll split them open and fill them with the savory stuffing. This dish is perfect as a main course or a side.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 2 chopped tomatoes
• 2 minced cloves of garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the eggplants whole for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
3. Let them cool, then cut them open lengthwise.
4. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
5. Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper; cook until thick.
6. Fill eggplants with the mixture.
7. Drizzle with more olive oil and bake for another 20 minutes.
8. Garnish with parsley before serving.

6) Manti (Turkish Dumplings)

Manti are delicious Turkish dumplings that you can easily make at home. They are usually filled with ground meat, like beef or lamb. You can also find vegetarian versions with mushrooms.

To make Manti, you often serve them with a garlicky yogurt sauce. Some recipes add a spiced oil topping for extra flavor. They are perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup ground beef or lamb
• 1 small chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 minced cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix flour, egg, and water to form the dough.
2. Roll the dough thin and cut into squares.
3. Combine meat, onion, salt, and pepper for the filling.
4. Place filling on dough squares and fold into dumplings.
5. Boil them for about 8-10 minutes.
6. In a small pan, heat olive oil and paprika.
7. Serve dumplings topped with yogurt, garlic, and spiced oil.

7) Meze Platter

A Meze Platter is a fun and colorful way to enjoy Turkish flavors. It’s made up of small dishes that you can share with friends and family. You can include items like hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki.

Add some marinated olives and feta cheese for more taste. Fresh veggies like cucumber and bell peppers make great dippers. You can also serve pita bread and crispy chips on the side.

This dish is perfect for parties or a cozy night in. It encourages everyone to try different flavors together.

Ingredients

• Hummus
• Baba ganoush
• Tzatziki
• Marinated olives
• Feta cheese
• Fresh veggies (cucumbers, bell peppers)
• Pita bread
• Crispy chips

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki in separate bowls.
2. Arrange marinated olives and feta cheese on a plate.
3. Cut fresh veggies into sticks.
4. Serve pita bread and chips on the side.
5. Enjoy with friends and family!

8) Adana Kebab

Adana Kebab is a delicious dish from Turkey that features juicy skewered meat. It is typically made with a mix of ground lamb and beef, seasoned with flavorful spices. This dish originates from the Adana region, known for its rich culinary traditions.

To prepare Adana Kebab, start by mixing the meat with onion, garlic, cumin, and red pepper. The combination creates a perfect balance of flavors. Shape the mixture onto skewers for grilling.

You can serve Adana Kebab with lavash or pita bread, along with fresh vegetables like tomatoes and parsley. The kebabs can be grilled outdoors or cooked in an oven.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 3 minced cloves of garlic
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ground lamb, ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
2. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
3. Shape the mixture around skewers.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F or 200°C).
5. Grill the kebabs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

9) Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Lahmacun, often called Turkish pizza, is a delightful dish. It features a thin, crispy flatbread topped with seasoned ground meat, often mixed with vegetables and spices. The blend of flavors makes it truly special.

You can use ground beef, lamb, or even a vegetarian mix. The toppings usually include onions, bell peppers, and fresh herbs for added freshness.

It’s easy to make at home and perfect for sharing. Just roll out the dough, spread the topping, and bake until crispy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Mix flour, salt, water, and olive oil to form a dough.
3. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine meat, onion, bell pepper, spices, and herbs.
5. Roll out the dough into thin rounds.
6. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

10) Menemen (Turkish Scrambled Eggs)

Menemen is a delicious Turkish dish made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, and peppers. It’s a popular breakfast option that is both flavorful and quick to prepare.

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this meal. The combination of soft eggs with fresh vegetables creates a hearty dish. You can serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1-2 green peppers, chopped
• 4 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in tomatoes and peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the skillet.
5. Gently stir until eggs are softly scrambled.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

11) Hünkar Beğendi (Sultan’s Delight)

Hünkar Beğendi, also known as Sultan’s Delight, is a delicious Turkish dish. It features tender lamb stew served over creamy roasted eggplant puree. The dish has a rich history, originating from the Ottoman palace kitchens.

To prepare this meal, you’ll first cook the lamb until it’s juicy and flavorful. You then make the eggplant puree, which adds a smooth texture to the dish. Combining these elements creates a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 900 g leg of lamb, diced
• 2 Tbsp flour
• 1 tsp mild chili powder
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 medium eggplants
• 1 cup milk
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot and add the lamb. Brown the meat over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir well.
3. Add enough water to cover the lamb and simmer until tender, about 1.5 hours (320°F/160°C).
4. Roast eggplants in the oven until soft, around 400°F (200°C), for 30 minutes.
5. Blend roasted eggplants with milk and butter until smooth.
6. Serve the lamb stew over the eggplant puree. Top with cheese if desired. Enjoy!

12) Baklava

Baklava is a popular Turkish dessert made from layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. The most common nuts used are pistachios, but you can also use walnuts or almonds.

To make baklava, you will need to brush each layer of dough with melted butter. This gives it a rich and buttery flavor. Once baked, the warm baklava is soaked in a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and lemon juice.

This dessert is often served in small pieces, making it a perfect treat for sharing with friends and family. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy and sweet.

Ingredients

• 1 package phyllo dough
• 2 cups chopped pistachios or nuts of your choice
• 1 cup melted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with butter.
3. Layer half of the phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
4. Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the dough.
5. Top with the remaining phyllo layers, again brushing each layer with butter.
6. Cut the baklava into diamond shapes with a sharp knife.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
8. While baking, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
9. Pour the syrup over the baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.
10. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy!

13) Künefe (Cheese Dessert)

Künefe is a traditional Turkish dessert that is rich and sweet. It consists of layers of crispy pastry filled with gooey cheese. The dessert is then soaked in syrup for extra flavor.

To make Künefe, you will need a special type of pastry called kadayıf. This pastry is very thin and helps create a crunchy texture. The cheese filling is often made from a soft white cheese.

Künefe is served warm, making it a comforting treat. Many people enjoy it with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top.

Ingredients

• 150 g kadayıf (shredded pastry)
• 150 g unsalted cheese (like mozzarella)
• 60 g butter
• 100 g sugar
• 120 ml water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Melt the butter and mix it with the kadayıf.
3. Layer half of the kadayıf in a baking dish.
4. Spread the cheese over the kadayıf.
5. Top with the remaining kadayıf.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden.
7. While baking, make the syrup by boiling sugar, water, and lemon juice for 10 minutes.
8. Pour the syrup over the baked Künefe and let it soak before serving.

14) Pide (Turkish Flatbread)

Pide is a delicious Turkish flatbread that comes in a boat shape. It is often topped with various ingredients like cheese, spiced meat, or vegetables. Pide is baked until golden and crispy, making it a great dish for any meal.

Making pide at home can be fun and simple. You can customize it with your favorite toppings. Serve it fresh from the oven for the best taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Your choice of toppings (cheese, ground meat, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In another bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Combine yeast mixture with the flour, then add olive oil.
4. Knead until smooth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
6. Shape the dough into a boat and add toppings.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Enjoy!

15) Izmir Köfte (Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)

Izmir Köfte is a delicious Turkish dish that features meatballs baked with potatoes and peppers. This comforting recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering.

You start by mixing ground meat with spices to form meatballs. Then, you fry them lightly before baking. Layer the meatballs with sliced potatoes and bell peppers in a baking dish, and pour a tasty tomato sauce over everything.

This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. It offers a wonderful mix of textures and tastes that your family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium onion, grated
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1-2 green bell peppers, sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
4. Lightly fry the meatballs in olive oil until golden brown.
5. In a baking dish, arrange the sliced potatoes and peppers.
6. Place the meatballs on top.
7. Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs and vegetables.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until cooked through.