10 Must-Try Turkish Street Foods You’ve Never Heard Of
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse dishes. While you may have heard of Turkish delights and kebabs, the world of Turkish street food is an adventure waiting to be explored. From savory pastries to sweet treats, here are ten must-try Turkish street foods that you may not have discovered yet.
1. Kumpir (Loaded Baked Potatoes) Kumpir is a Turkish street food staple that takes baked potatoes to a whole new level. The potatoes are baked to perfection, then mashed and mixed with butter and cheese. You can top your kumpir with a variety of ingredients like olives, pickles, corn, and more.
2. Boza (Fermented Wheat Drink) Boza is a traditional Turkish fermented drink made from crushed wheat and sugar. It has a unique, slightly tangy flavor and a thick, pudding-like consistency. It’s often topped with cinnamon and roasted chickpeas and is a beloved winter street food
3. Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels) Midye dolma features mussels filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced rice, pine nuts, currants, and herbs. They are often served with a squeeze of lemon juice.
4. Sıkma (Turkish Squeeze Pancakes) Sıkma are thin pancakes made from a batter of flour, water, and yogurt, then cooked on a griddle. They are often folded and filled with sweet or savory ingredients like cheese, chocolate, or minced meat, making them a versatile and delicious street food.
5. Çiğ Köfte (Spicy Raw Meatballs) Çiğ köfte is a unique street food made from bulgur wheat, finely minced meat (usually beef or lamb), and a mixture of spices. While the original recipe contained raw meat, it’s often prepared with vegetarian or vegan versions nowadays due to food safety concerns. It’s rolled into bite-sized portions and served with lettuce leaves and lemon juice.
6. Kokoreç (Offal) Kokoreç is made from lamb or goat intestines, skewered and grilled to perfection. The meat is usually seasoned with spices and served in a sandwich with fresh vegetables. Kokoreç is served in a sandwich, this hearty option is a favorite among those seeking a savory and spicy street food experience.
7. Islak Hamburger (Wet Burger) These small, juicy hamburgers are drenched in a garlicky tomato sauce. They are both messy and delicious, perfect for satisfying late-night cravings.
8. Mısır (Roasted Corn on the Cob) Mısır, or roasted corn on the cob, is often seasoned with salt and spices and makes for a tasty and healthy street snack.
9. Tavuk pilav (Chicken and Rice): Tavuk pilav is a popular Turkish street food consisting of tender pieces of chicken served over seasoned rice. It’s often flavored with aromatic spices and served with a side of pickles or vegetables, making it a satisfying and lesser-known street food choice in Turkey.
10. Tantuni (Turkish Beef Wrap): Tantuni features thin strips of beef cooked with onions, peppers, and spices, all wrapped in a soft flatbread. It’s a flavorful and satisfying street food choice.
Exploring Turkish street food is like embarking on a culinary adventure. These ten lesser-known street foods offer a delightful mix of flavors, textures, and aromas that capture the essence of Turkish cuisine. So, the next time you find yourself in Turkey or at a Turkish food festival, be sure to try these must-try Turkish street foods that you may not have heard of before. Your taste buds will thank you for it!