Turkey’s Best Meat-Based Dishes to Pair with Local Wines

Turkey, a land rich in culinary traditions, is known for its diverse and flavorful meat-based dishes. When paired with local wines, these dishes create a symphony of flavors that enhance the dining experience. Here, we explore some of Turkey’s best meat-based dishes and the ideal Turkish wines to complement them.

Kebabs

Kebabs are perhaps the most iconic meat dish in Turkey, with variations ranging from the spicy Adana kebab to the flavorful Urfa kebab. Made with minced meat and various spices, these kebabs are often grilled to perfection. For the perfect pairing, a glass of Kavaklıdere Cankaya, a white wine that boasts a crisp finish, complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Lahmacun

Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. The combination of flavors can be intense, making it a delightful dish to match with a robust red wine. Consider a glass of Doluca Şarapları’s Gümüşlük, which features fruity notes that balance the earthy essence of the lahmacun.

Iskender Kebab

This dish consists of succulent pieces of döner kebab laid upon a bed of pita bread, smothered in rich tomato sauce and served with a generous dollop of yogurt. Iskender Kebab's richness pairs well with the full-bodied Trakya Serisi Syrah, whose complex flavors elevate the dish’s savory profile.

Manti

Turkish dumplings, or manti, are filled with spiced ground meat and served with garlic yogurt and chili oil. This dish's diverse flavors require a wine that can stand up to its complexity. A glass of Objsa Rosé enhances the dish with its acidity and hints of berries, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory dumplings.

Testi Kebab

Testi Kebab is a unique dish cooked in a clay pot, filled with tender meat and vegetables. The flavors meld together during the slow cooking process, making this dish a favorite in central Anatolia. Pair it with the rich and flavorful Chateau Kalpak Merlot, as its smooth tannins and dark fruit notes complement the dish perfectly.

Pide

Pide, often referred to as Turkish flatbread, is topped with various meats like ground lamb or beef, making it a hearty option. The meaty filling pairs wonderfully with a bottle of Yenisehir Kalecik Karası, a local varietal known for its vibrant acidity and berry flavors that match the pide's seasonings.

Beef Stew (Tas Kebabı)

This classic dish features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with vegetables and spices, resulting in a comforting and hearty meal. A rich Vinkara Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with tas kebabı, enhancing the deep flavors of the stew while providing a robust finish.

Kuzu Tandir (Slow-Cooked Lamb)

Kuzu tandir is a traditional dish of slow-cooked lamb, often falling off the bone and infused with fragrant spices. This dish demands a wine that can match its richness. A full-bodied Sevilen Toprak serves as an excellent accompaniment, with its herbal notes enhancing the lamb's flavors.

Conclusion

Pairing Turkey’s delectable meat-based dishes with the right local wines can significantly elevate your meal experience. From the iconic kebabs to the rich flavors of lamb dishes, there is a perfect Turkish wine waiting to enhance each bite. Explore these combinations for a culinary journey through Turkey.