Istanbul

Turkey

## Warning! This post may cause excessive hunger!



Every country, every region has their unique types of street food, projecting the taste, culture, life style of the people living there. I must say, Turkey has many different selections when it comes to food but there are some where you can find everywhere when you need that bite to keep you going. For me, the first one is ''simit and çay'' which are Turkish bagels or pretzels with sesame seeds and tea. This legendary and affordable duo can be find in any street of any region and it is perfect for the times when you are in a rush or want to sit down somewhere and enjoy the view, If you are looking for another affordable and filling duo, you can definitely got for the world famous ''döner kebab and ayran''. Döner kebab is also available in every corner just follow the smell:) There are also some very unique street food choices available for the ones who are coming back from a night out. The best one for me is Midye Dolma which is basically fresh mussels filled with spicy rice. If you are a seafood lover these little mussels with some lemon on them can make your night even better and they are extremely cheap. The other night time choice is kokoreç and ayran. Many people ask what is kokoreç, well I am going to be honest and tell you guys, it is lamb intestines cooked with traditional spices. It may sound awful to some but give it a try it tastes amazing and fills you up for a small price. 

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So if you are in Istanbul, go out and try some of these fantastic duos and let us know, but if you would like to learn more about the Turkish Cuisine visit Traveling Spoon's website.

Discover regional Turkish produce at the local Turkish bazaar. Meet Nuray and Ipek at their apartment before heading out together to visit the neighborhood market. They will show you some of their favorite stalls and show you the best seasonal produce. After picking up a few things for the meal you'll return home to start cooking. Under Nuray's expert eye you will learn to prepare some of her Turkish specialties. She’ll have you frying eggplant, chopping fresh vegetables, and wrapping börek within minutes of arriving at their apartment. Nuray is an effortless cook and will show you how to prepare a variety of dishes with confidence. You’ll enjoy the dishes you helped to prepare along with a few other dishes she prepares in advance. Your meal may start with a mercimek çorbası (lentil soup) followed by içli köfte (stuffed bulgar meatballs, also known as kibbeh), cheese börek (a cheese-filled pastry), yogurt lu ispanak (spinach and yoghurt), barbunya pilaki (beans stewed in a tomato and lemon sauce), Nuray’s special handmade burger, karniyarik (eggplant stuffed with mincemeat and tomatoes) and a dessert of the most ethereal homemade baklava you’ve ever tasted served with traditional Turkish coffee.

Market Tour and Turkish Cooking Class

Start your adventure with a trip to the weekly farmers market in Besiktas Pazarı where Berhans buys all of her fruit, vegetables and fish, every Saturday. Berhan uses only fresh ingredients and on this tour you will discover regional Turkish produce and how to purchase them. The market has two floors; the top floor sells clothes and gözleme (traditional Turkish pastry), and the ground floor is filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables, nuts and pulses. Explore the market together with Berhan and then return to Berhan's home, a 15-minute walk, to begin your cooking class and meal. Join Berhan in her small kitchen to learn how to make 1-2 traditional Turkish dishes that you will eat together later. As Berhan's kitchen is small, you will do most of the prep work outside, in the dining area, and use the kitchen for the final cooking. You can expect to learn Berhan's mother's recipe for traditional dolma or sarma (stuffed grape leaves with minced vegetables and rice), one of Berhan's favorite dishes. Enjoy the meal you helped prepare which might include dishes such as yogurt and chickpea soup, kisir (bulgur salad), kofte (meatballs), borek (crispy Turkish pastry), manti (traditional Turkish dumplings) and traditional tarhana (a delicious green lentil soup only available in the winter). Your meal will end with a dessert of either kazandibi (caramelized milk pudding) or asure (a sweet pudding of grains and dried fruit). Turkish cuisine is about vegetables, fish, meat, rice and Turkish meze (like tapas) all cooked in pure olive oil or butter, and Berhan delights in meeting new people and sharing Turkish dishes like these with travelers from around the world.

Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Berhan

### Experience the Authentic Flavors of Turkey with Berhan in Arnavutköy

If you're a food lover and want to experience the true essence of Turkish cuisine, then a traditional meal with Berhan in Arnavutköy is an absolute must. Arnavutköy, located on the European side of Istanbul, is a charming neighborhood known for its historic houses, picturesque waterfront, and vibrant culinary scene. And Berhan, a passionate cook with a rich culinary heritage, is the perfect guide to introduce you to the flavors of Turkey.

#### A Culinary Journey through Turkey

Berhan's culinary expertise stems from her diverse background. With a father from the Black Sea region and a mother from the Aegean coast, she grew up learning the art of cooking from both these regions, as well as Anatolian cuisine. Her love for cooking began at a young age, and she has been honing her skills since she was 10 years old.

#### Fresh and Organic Ingredients

One of the highlights of Berhan's cooking is her commitment to using only fresh and organic ingredients. For example, the olive oil she uses in her dishes comes from her own olive garden on the Aegean coast. This dedication to quality ensures that every bite is bursting with authentic flavors and showcases the best of Turkish produce.

#### A Feast for the Senses

When you join Berhan for a traditional Turkish meal, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. The meal might start with a refreshing welcome drink, where Berhan will share fascinating insights into local Turkish food and culture. As you sit down at the dining table, you'll be treated to a feast that includes a variety of mouthwatering dishes.

#### Delightful Turkish Delicacies

From yogurt and chickpea soup to kisir (bulgur salad), kofte (meatballs), borek (crispy Turkish pastry), manti (traditional Turkish dumplings), and traditional tarhana (a delicious green lentil soup available only in winter), Berhan's menu is a celebration of Turkish flavors. Each dish is prepared with love and care, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the country.

#### Sweet Endings

No Turkish meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Berhan knows just how to satisfy your sweet tooth. You might indulge in kazandibi, a caramelized milk pudding, or asure, a sweet pudding made with grains and dried fruit. These desserts are the perfect finale to a memorable dining experience.

#### Immerse Yourself in Turkish Culture

Beyond the delectable food, dining with Berhan offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Turkish culture. As you savor each bite, Berhan will share stories and anecdotes about the dishes, their origins, and their significance in Turkish cuisine. It's a chance to not only taste the flavors of Turkey but also gain a deeper understanding of its culinary traditions.

#### Visit Arnavutköy

While in Arnavutköy, take some time to explore the neighborhood's charming streets and historic houses. Admire the beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus. Arnavutköy is also known for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing the works of local artists.

#### When to Visit

Arnavutköy is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. This allows you to fully enjoy the outdoor beauty of the neighborhood while indulging in a traditional Turkish meal with Berhan.

#### Conclusion

A traditional Turkish meal with Berhan in Arnavutköy is an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a deeper appreciation for Turkish cuisine. From the fresh and organic ingredients to the delightful flavors of each dish, Berhan's culinary expertise will transport you to the heart of Turkey. So, don't miss the opportunity to embark on this culinary journey and discover the authentic flavors of Turkey in the charming neighborhood of Arnavutköy.

Traditional Turkish Meal with Berhan

### Learn to Cook Turkish Cuisine with Nuray in Arnavutköy: A Culinary Adventure

If you're a food lover and want to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine, then a visit to Arnavutköy is a must. This charming neighborhood, located on the European side of Istanbul, is not only known for its picturesque waterfront and historic wooden houses but also for the culinary delights it offers. And there's no better way to experience the local cuisine than by learning to cook traditional Turkish dishes with Nuray and Ipek, a mother and daughter team who are passionate about sharing their love for food and culture.

### A Warm Welcome in Ataköy

Nuray and Ipek's modern apartment in the Ataköy neighborhood is the perfect setting for a culinary adventure. As you step inside, you'll be greeted with a warm smile and a peek-a-boo view of the sea. Nuray, an accomplished home-cook, will guide you through the process of preparing some of her Turkish specialties, while Ipek, an engineering student, adds her own unique touch to the experience.

### Unleash Your Inner Chef

Under Nuray's expert eye, you'll quickly find yourself frying eggplant, chopping fresh vegetables, and mastering the art of wrapping börek. Nuray's effortless cooking style and wealth of knowledge will give you the confidence to prepare a variety of dishes. From mercimek çorbası (lentil soup) to karniyarik (eggplant stuffed with mincemeat and tomatoes), you'll learn the secrets behind these mouthwatering creations. And the best part? You get to enjoy the fruits of your labor, along with a few other dishes that Nuray prepares in advance.

### A Feast for the Senses

Prepare to indulge in a culinary feast that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Your meal may start with a comforting bowl of mercimek çorbası, followed by the flavorful içli köfte (stuffed bulgar meatballs) and cheese börek, a cheese-filled pastry that is both crispy and gooey. Nuray will also introduce you to yogurt lu ispanak, a refreshing dish of spinach and yogurt, and barbunya pilaki, beans stewed in a tangy tomato and lemon sauce. And let's not forget Nuray's special handmade burger, a true treat for meat lovers. To end the meal on a sweet note, you'll savor the most ethereal homemade baklava you've ever tasted, served with traditional Turkish coffee.

### Explore Arnavutköy

While the cooking experience with Nuray and Ipek is undoubtedly the highlight of your visit, Arnavutköy itself has much to offer. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the historic wooden houses that line the streets. These architectural gems, dating back to the Ottoman era, add a unique charm to the neighborhood. Don't forget to capture some Instagram-worthy shots of the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the Bosphorus.

### When to Visit

Arnavutköy is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. This allows you to fully enjoy the outdoor beauty of the neighborhood while exploring its culinary delights.

### Conclusion

Learning to cook Turkish cuisine with Nuray and Ipek in Arnavutköy is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. From the warm welcome to the mouthwatering dishes, this culinary adventure offers a unique opportunity to delve into the flavors and culture of Turkey. So, pack your apron and get ready to embark on a journey of taste and tradition in the heart of Istanbul.

Learn to Cook Turkish Cuisine with Nuray

Gülşen is a bubbly, passionate host who is excited to share her culinary heritage, as well as a few tips, with guests. Gülşen will make you feel right at home in her modern, tastefully decorated apartment. Like many Turkish cooks, Gülşen prepares vegetable-focused meals with minimal meat. Rather than being the focus of the meal, meat is used sparingly to bring flavor to the dishes. She and her neighbor might prepare a variety of dolma (stuffed vegetables, be they grape leaves, peppers or tomatoes), white or brown rice (pilav), a carrot meze, zucchini fritters, çerkez tavuk (Circassian chicken, a meze of shredded, mashed chicken mixed with yogurt and chopped walnuts), babaganoush (roasted, mashed eggplant), Sema's perfectly balanced fava bean paste, and a fresh green salad. Your meal will start with a soup and end with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea and something sweet.

Enjoy a Fresh Turkish Lunch with Gulsen

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Street Food Duos of Turkey

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I am Idil Birben. I am from Istanbul,Turkey but currently I am doing my masters in Media and Communications at City University of London. I have always been passionate about traveling, getting to know new cultures and people, as well as exploring my own secret spots. I am one of those people who are constantly looking for flights and affordable destinations. Writing about my experiences and helping others to enjoy my discoveries make me really excited and finally I got this opportunity with this lovely team. I hope you all enjoy my pages and I am always open to content suggestions. Happy travels!

Street Food Duos of Turkey

Warning! This post may cause excessive hunger!

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