A Guide to Turkish Cold Mezes

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and vibrant dishes, and one of the highlights is the assortment of cold mezes. These small appetizers are perfect for sharing and make any meal a delightful experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most popular Turkish cold mezes that you can enjoy.

1. Hummus
Hummus is a classic Middle Eastern dish made mainly from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. In Turkey, it’s often garnished with olive oil, paprika, or fresh parsley. This creamy delight pairs well with pita bread and is a must-try when indulging in Turkish meze.

2. Baba Ghanoush
This smoky eggplant dip combines roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Baba ghanoush offers a unique flavor and is commonly served with pita chips or fresh vegetables. The charred taste of the eggplant makes this meze particularly appealing.

3. Dolma
Dolma refers to a variety of stuffed grape leaves, typically filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. In Turkey, you can find both vegetarian and meat-filled dolmas. They are refreshing, flavorful, and can be enjoyed either warm or cold, making them a perfect addition to your meze platter.

4. Haydari
This thick and creamy yogurt dip is flavored with garlic, fresh herbs, and cucumbers. Haydari is not only delicious but also provides a refreshing balance to richer dishes on the table. Serve it with fresh bread or alongside spicy mezes for a delightful contrast.

5. Fattoush
The Turkish version of this traditional Middle Eastern salad includes fresh vegetables, crispy pieces of pita bread, and a tangy dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil. Fattoush brings a refreshing crunch to your meze selection and is perfect for those looking for a lighter option.

6. Muhammara
This spicy dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, and breadcrumbs is a true gem in Turkish meze offerings. Its slightly sweet and nutty flavor profile paired with a hint of spice makes it an unforgettable accompaniment to your starter spread.

7. Tarator
Tarator is a yogurt-based dip that includes crushed walnuts, garlic, and sometimes herbs. It's a bit like the Turkish version of tzatziki, providing a creamy and delectable option for dipping bread or vegetables.

8. Pide
While traditionally a hot dish, cold versions of pide featuring various toppings can also be enjoyed as a meze. It’s a Turkish flatbread that can be topped with a variety of ingredients like cheese, minced meat, or vegetables.

9. Beetroot Salad
This vibrant salad includes beets, garlic, and sometimes yogurt. Its earthy flavor and colorful presentation make it a wonderful addition to your cold meze spread, offering both visual and taste appeal.

10. Zeytinyağlılar
This term refers to a variety of dishes prepared with olive oil, typically incorporating vegetables like artichokes, green beans, or fava beans. These dishes are usually served cold and often include a citrusy dressing that enhances the flavors.

When enjoying Turkish meze, it’s common to serve these dishes alongside a selection of fresh bread and olives, creating an inviting and communal atmosphere. Each dish can be enjoyed alone, but the true joy of meze lies in mixing and matching the flavors to create a unique culinary experience. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking to enjoy a taste of Turkey at home, these cold mezes are sure to impress.