The Best Mezes to Try in Turkey

When visiting Turkey, one of the most delightful experiences is indulging in traditional mezes. These small dishes are perfect for sharing and provide a taste of the country's diverse culinary heritage. Here’s a curated list of the best mezes to try in Turkey that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Hummus
Hummus is a creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. This versatile meze is often served with warm pita bread, making it a perfect starter to any meal. Its savory flavor and smooth texture are loved by locals and tourists alike.

2. Babaganoush
Babaganoush is another delicious dip made primarily from roasted eggplants, mixed with tahini, garlic, and lemon. The smoky flavor combined with the creamy consistency makes it a must-try. Serve it with bread or fresh vegetables for a refreshing appetizer.

3. Dolma
Dolma are grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and various spices. Depending on the region, they can be served hot or cold. These flavorful rolls are often accompanied by a side of yogurt, enhancing their taste and richness.

4. Sigara Böreği
This crispy pastry is filled with cheese and herbs, rolled into a cigar shape, and then deep-fried to golden perfection. Sigara böreği is a popular choice in Turkish meze platters and is typically served hot, offering a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with its soft filling.

5. Menemen
Menemen is a scrambled egg dish cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices. Often enjoyed as a breakfast option, it can also be served as a meze, especially when accompanied by crusty bread for dipping. Its rich flavors and hearty nature make it a favorite across Turkey.

6. Muhammara
This spicy and sweet dip hails from the Aleppo region and is made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, and spices. Its unique combination of flavors makes Muhammara stand out on any meze table, ideal for those seeking something a bit different.

7. Çılbır
Çılbır is a traditional Turkish dish made of poached eggs served over a creamy yogurt base and drizzled with melted butter infused with paprika. This delightful meze showcases the balance of flavors and textures that Turkish cuisine is known for.

8. Tzatziki
This refreshing yogurt-based dip is made with cucumbers, garlic, and dill, delivering a cool and tangy flavor profile. Tzatziki is perfect for counterbalancing spicier dishes and is a staple in many meze assortments.

9. Fried Zucchini Fritters (Kabak Mücveri)
These savory fritters combine grated zucchini, herbs, and feta cheese, lightly fried until crispy. Kabak mücveri is often served with yogurt or a garlic dip, providing a delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables while sampling Turkish cuisine.

10. Black Sea Anchovies (Hamsi)
For seafood lovers, black sea anchovies are a must-try. These small fish are typically fried or grilled and served with a side of slices of lemon. Their salty and savory flavor is a testament to the region's fishing heritage.

Sampling these mezes while enjoying a traditional Turkish meal will surely enhance your culinary journey in Turkey. Whether enjoyed in a bustling restaurant or a cozy home setting, Turkish mezes promise an explosion of flavors and a memorable experience. Don’t forget to pair them with a glass of raki, the famous Turkish anise-flavored drink, for an authentic touch!