A Guide to Making Simple and Delicious Turkish Mezes

Turkish mezes, small dishes often served as appetizers, play an integral role in the country's vibrant culinary landscape. These delectable bites are perfect for sharing and allow for a tantalizing glimpse into authentic Turkish flavors. This guide provides simple recipes for a variety of delicious mezes that will impress your guests or elevate your next meal.

1. Hummus

Hummus is a classic middle eastern dip that is both creamy and satisfying. Here’s a quick recipe to make your own:

  • Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, 2 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 garlic clove, juice of 1 lemon, salt to taste, paprika for garnish.

Instructions:

  1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then combine all ingredients (except paprika) in a food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little water or more olive oil.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with paprika, and drizzle with olive oil before serving.

2. Muhammara

This vibrant red pepper and walnut dip is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

  • Ingredients: 1 cup roasted red peppers, 1 cup walnuts, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin, juice of 1 lemon, salt to taste, olive oil.

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, walnuts, garlic, cumin, and lemon juice.
  2. Blend until smooth and drizzle in olive oil to achieve a creamy texture.
  3. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with walnuts or a drizzle of olive oil.

3. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma)

Dolma are tender grape leaves filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and herbs.

  • Ingredients: 1 jar grape leaves (about 60 leaves), 1 cup rice, 1 onion (finely chopped), ½ cup pine nuts, 1 teaspoon dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add rice and pine nuts, cook for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Mix in dill, salt, pepper, and a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice.
  3. Lay a grape leaf flat, place a tablespoon of the mixture at the base, fold sides over, and roll tightly.
  4. Place in a pot, cover with water and a bit of lemon juice, and cook on low for about 45 minutes.

4. Eggplant Salad (Patlıcan Salatası)

This smoky, rich salad is a great addition to any mezze spread.

  • Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, 1 onion (chopped), 1 tomato (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Instructions:

  1. Roast the eggplants until the skin is charred and the insides are soft.
  2. Once cooled, peel the skins and chop the flesh.
  3. In a bowl, combine the chopped eggplant, onion, tomato, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.

5. Feta and Olive Platter

Simplicity at its best, a feta and olive platter is easy to prepare and always a hit.

  • Ingredients: A selection of feta cheese, green and black olives, and fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.

Instructions:

  1. On a serving plate, arrange cubes of feta cheese around a variety of olives.
  2. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for added flavor.

Turkish mezes are not only delicious but also versatile and