Turkey is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and that diversity is reflected in its cuisine. There are several different cuisines within Turkey, each with its own unique flavors and ingredients. If you're planning a trip to Turkey, make sure to add some (or all!) of these dishes to your list of things to try. 

Turkish Breakfast 

A traditional Turkish breakfast usually consists of bread, cheese, olives, eggs, and honey. Sometimes meats like sausage or ham will be included as well. This is a filling meal that will give you energy for a busy day of sightseeing. 

Lahmacun 

Lahmacun is a popular street food in Turkey. It's a thin piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It's then baked in a very hot oven and served rolled up or flat. 

Baklava 

Baklava is a pastry made from layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup. It is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, and it is now a popular dessert throughout the Middle East. The syrup used in baklava can be made from sugar or honey, and the nuts can be pistachios, almonds, or walnuts. 

Kunefe 

Kunefe is another Ottoman dessert made with phyllo dough, cheese, and syrup. The dough is soaked in syrup and then baked. Once it’s out of the oven, Kunefe is served with a sweet cheese such as kashta or kaymak. 

Turkish Coffee 

Turkish coffee is made by boiling water and coffee grounds together and then adding spices like cardamom or cinnamon. Once it’s done brewing, the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup. Turkish coffee is usually served with Turkish delight or Baklava. 

Ayran  

Ayran is a refreshing yogurt drink that is popular in Turkey during the summer months. It is made by blending yogurt with water and salt. Ayran can be enjoyed plain or flavored with mint, dill, or cucumber. 

Kebabs 

Kebabs are a staple of Turkish cuisine. They're typically made with lamb or chicken, but you can also find beef and fish kebabs as well. The meat is cooked on a skewer over an open flame and served with rice or bread.

Turkish Tea 

No matter what time of day it is, you can always find someone enjoying a cup of Turkish tea. This strong black tea is usually brewed with loose leaves and served in small glasses. If you're looking for something stronger, try raki, an anise-flavored spirit that's traditionally consumed with friends or family. 

Raki  

Raki is an unsweetened anise-flavored spirit that is traditionally made from grapes. It is often referred to as “ lions milk“ because of its milky appearance when mixed with water. Raki is typically served as an aperitif or after a meal as a digestive aid 

Turkey has so much to offer in terms of cuisine, culture, and history. And while there are many different dishes to choose from, these are just a few of the must-try foods when you're in Turkey. So why not add them to your list and see for yourself how delicious Turkish cuisine can be? Book a Turkey holiday package with Thompsons Holidays, we make travel easy.