A Guide to Traditional Turkish Sauces

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, with sauces playing a crucial role in enhancing dishes. This guide explores some of the most beloved traditional Turkish sauces, providing you with recipes and tips for how to incorporate them into your meals.

1. Yogurt Sauce (Yoğurtlu Sos)

Yogurt sauce is a staple in Turkish cuisine, often served as a dip or a condiment. Made with strained yogurt, garlic, and sometimes cucumber, it's a refreshing addition to grilled meats and meze plates. To make this sauce, mix 1 cup of strained yogurt with 2 minced garlic cloves, a pinch of salt, and a splash of olive oil. For an extra twist, add finely chopped cucumbers or herbs like dill or mint.

2. Spicy Tomato Sauce (Acılı Domates Sosu)

This vibrant sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a kick of heat in their meals. It’s commonly used with kebabs and grilled meats. To prepare, sauté 2 chopped onions in olive oil until translucent. Add 3 chopped tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 1-2 chopped red chili peppers. Cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Tahini Sauce (Tahini Sosu)

Tahini sauce is a creamy, nutty condiment made from sesame seed paste. It's often paired with falafel, salads, or drizzled over grilled meats. To make it, combine 1/2 cup of tahini, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1-2 cloves of minced garlic, and water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and garnish with parsley or paprika for added flavor.

4. Green Sauce (Yeşil Sos)

Green sauce is versatile and can be used as a marinade or dip. This vibrant mixture typically includes fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and dill, combined with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Blend a handful of each herb with 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, and a clove of garlic. This sauce pairs beautifully with fish and grilled vegetables.

5. Pomegranate Molasses Sauce (Nar Ekşisi Sosu)

Pomegranate molasses brings a sweet-tangy flavor that elevates many dishes. It's commonly used to dress salads or glazes for meats. To make a simple dressing, mix 1/4 cup of pomegranate molasses with 1/4 cup olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and salt to taste. This sauce gives a distinctive lift to roasted vegetables and grilled chicken.

6. Garlic Sauce (Sarımsak Sosu)

Another beloved sauce is garlic sauce, which adds a pungent depth to various dishes. It’s particularly popular alongside grilled and fried foods. To make garlic sauce, blend 2-3 cloves of roasted garlic with a cup of mayonnaise, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Serve it with fries or drizzle it over shawarma.

7. Red Pepper Paste (Biber Salçası)

This concentrated paste is made from sun-dried red peppers and is a fundamental ingredient in many Turkish dishes. Red pepper paste can be used in soups, stews, or as a spread. Incorporate it into your cooking by mixing equal parts red pepper paste and olive oil, adding it to sautéed onions and garlic for a flavor base in many recipes.

Each of these traditional Turkish sauces offers a taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage. By experimenting with these flavors, you can bring a touch of Turkey to your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to pair these sauces with your favorite dishes!