The Top Meat-Based Foods to Eat When Visiting Turkey

Turkey is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and meat-based dishes hold a special place in Turkish cuisine. The diversity of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques makes Turkish meat dishes a must-try for any food enthusiast. Here’s a rundown of the top meat-based foods to eat when visiting Turkey.

1. Kebab

Kebab is perhaps the most iconic Turkish meat dish. Variants include Adana Kebab, made from minced lamb and served with spicy pepper, and İskender Kebab, which features thinly sliced lamb, tomato sauce, and yogurt on a bed of bread. Sampling kebab from a local eatery is a quintessential experience for visitors.

2. Döner

Döner is, without a doubt, another must-try meat dish while in Turkey. This succulent dish consists of seasoned meat (usually lamb or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It can be served as a wrap in pita bread or on a plate with rice and salad. The delicious blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a fast-food favorite among locals and tourists alike.

3. Çoban Kavurma

Çoban Kavurma, or Shepherd’s Stew, is a hearty dish made with sautéed diced meat, typically lamb or beef, combined with tomatoes, peppers, and onions. Perfect for colder days, this dish showcases the rustic flavors of Turkish cooking. Served alongside rice or bread, it’s a fulfilling meal that embodies the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine.

4. Testi Kebab

For a unique dining experience, try Testi Kebab, which hails from the Cappadocia region. This dish features meat and vegetables slow-cooked in a clay pot, sealed with dough. The pot is broken open at the table, revealing the tender meat cooked to perfection. The theatrical presentation is just as delightful as the flavors!

5. Sujuk

Sujuk is a spicy, air-dried sausage made from beef that’s seasoned with garlic, cumin, and other spices. It's often sliced and pan-fried, served as an appetizer or in a breakfast spread with eggs. The robust flavor and fresh spices make it a popular choice among meat lovers.

6. Köfte

Köfte are Turkish meatballs typically made from minced beef or lamb, mixed with various herbs and spices. They can be grilled, baked, or fried and are served with rice, salad, or in a sandwich. Each region has its own version of köfte, showcasing local ingredients and flavors, making them worth exploring.

7. Yaprak Sarma

While primarily known as a vegetarian dish, Yaprak Sarma also features a meat-filled version that's a traveler’s delight. These vine leaves are stuffed with rice, spices, and minced meat, then rolled and cooked. The tangy flavor of the grape leaves complements the rich filling, creating a unique culinary experience.

8. Pide

Often referred to as Turkish pizza, Pide is a flatbread topped with various toppings, including minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. The dough is shaped like a boat and baked until crispy. Each region has its own specialties, such as Kayseri Pide, which is topped with spiced minced meat and egg.

9. Manti

Turkish dumplings, known as Manti, are usually filled with spiced minced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. They are typically smaller than their Asian counterparts and are sometimes topped with a spiced tomato sauce, making them a comforting dish that should not be missed.

When visiting Turkey, indulging in these rich, flavorful meat-based dishes offers a taste of the country's vibrant culinary traditions. Whether dining in a bustling restaurant or a local eatery, each dish tells a story of Turkey’s cultural history through its delightful flavors and textures.