Discovering the Best Turkish Mezes with Cheese

When it comes to Turkish cuisine, mezes hold a special place. They are small plates or appetizers that offer a delightful start to any meal. Among these, cheese mezes offer a rich and flavorful experience that is hard to resist. In this article, we will explore some of the best Turkish mezes with cheese.

1. Beyaz Peynir

Beyaz Peynir, or white cheese, is a staple in Turkish mezes. Made from sheep or cow's milk, this creamy cheese is often served with olives, tomatoes, and fresh bread. Its tangy flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it the perfect addition to a meze platter.

2. Sigara Böreği

Sigara Böreği are crispy pastry rolls filled with feta cheese and herbs. These are deep-fried until golden brown, offering a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling. Served with yogurt for dipping, Sigara Böreği is a favorite among cheese lovers and makes for an irresistible meze.

3. Mücver

Mücver is a delicious zucchini fritter often made with cheese. Grated zucchini is mixed with feta cheese, eggs, and herbs, then fried to perfection. These golden fritters are both savory and satisfying, making them a fantastic cheese meze option to share with friends and family.

4. Kumpir

This popular street food features a baked potato stuffed with an array of fillings, including melted cheese. While Kumpir is not a traditional meze, its cheesy goodness has made it a beloved dish in Turkey. Choose from various toppings to create your perfect cheesy experience.

5. Peynirli Sucuk

Peynirli Sucuk is a spicy Turkish sausage served with melted cheese. The combination of the rich, savory sausage with creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that is hard to beat. This dish is often enjoyed as part of a meze spread, appealing to those who enjoy robust flavors.

6. Feta Cheese Salad

A simple yet flavorful meze is a feta cheese salad, typically consisting of cubed feta, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil. The freshness of the vegetables complements the saltiness of the cheese, making this dish a refreshing addition to any meze table.

7. Zeytinyağlı Enginar

This artichoke dish is not primarily a cheese meze, but it often includes a sprinkle of feta or another cheese. The artichokes are stewed in olive oil and served cold, offering a delicious contrast to the creaminess of the cheese.

Conclusion

Turkish mezes with cheese provide a unique blend of textures and flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Whether you prefer fried pastries, salads, or simple cheese and olive platters, there’s something delicious for every cheese lover. Be sure to explore these options the next time you indulge in Turkish cuisine!