The Best Turkish Sauces to Pair with Seafood

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, especially when it comes to seafood. When enjoying seafood dishes, pairing them with the right sauce can elevate the experience. From tangy to spicy, Turkish sauces offer a unique complement to a variety of seafood. Here are some of the best Turkish sauces to consider for your next seafood meal.

1. Tarator
Tarator is a refreshing sauce made primarily with yogurt, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. This creamy dip is perfect for pairing with fried or grilled fish, adding a tangy flavor and a smooth texture. The nuttiness of tahini enhances the seafood, making it an excellent choice for dishes like fried calamari or grilled sea bass.

2. Acili Ezme
Acili Ezme is a spicy tomato and pepper sauce that brings a zesty kick to seafood. Made with finely chopped tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and olive oil, this sauce is vibrant and full of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with grilled fish dishes, adding a burst of heat that balances the natural sweetness of the seafood.

3. Roka Salatası
Although it’s primarily a salad, Roka Salatası (arugula salad) can be viewed as a versatile sauce when served alongside grilled seafood. Combining arugula, tomatoes, red onions, and a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice, it offers a peppery flavor that complements oily fish like mackerel or sardines beautifully.

4. Sofia Sauce
This lesser-known sauce is made from crushed walnuts, garlic, and pomegranate molasses. Sofia sauce provides a rich and nutty flavor profile that perfectly balances with baked or broiled seafood. It’s particularly delicious drizzled over baked trout or sea bream, enhancing the dish with an exquisite depth of flavor.

5. Sumac Onions
A common accompaniment in Turkish cuisine, sumac onions are prepared by soaking thinly sliced onions in sumac, a tangy and citrusy spice. This condiment is perfect for adding a bright, acidic note to richer seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or fatty fish. The sharpness of the onions cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded palate experience.

6. Biber Salçası
Biber Salçası, or Turkish pepper paste, is a staple in many Turkish kitchens. This thick paste, made from red bell peppers, offers a sweet and smoky flavor. When used as a sauce or marinade with seafood, it’s particularly fantastic for grilling shrimp or fish kebabs, adding depth and character to the dish.

7. Garlic Sauce (Sarımsak Sosu)
This garlicky sauce is a staple for many seafood platters. Made with garlic, mayonnaise, and a hint of lemon juice, it’s creamy and full of flavor. It pairs exceptionally well with fried seafood like shrimp or calamari, adding a rich and tangy kick to each bite.

Incorporating these Turkish sauces into your seafood dishes can enhance flavors and provide a delightful culinary adventure. Experimenting with these sauces will not only elevate your seafood experience but will also introduce you to the rich tapestry of Turkish culinary traditions.