The Best Turkish Soups to Serve on a Cold Night

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. Turkish cuisine features a delightful array of soups that are perfect for cozy nights in. Here, we explore some of the best Turkish soups to serve when the chilly weather calls for a steaming dish.

1. Mercimek Çorbası (Lentil Soup)
One of the most beloved Turkish soups, Mercimek Çorbası is a hearty dish made primarily from red lentils, carrots, and spices. This protein-packed soup is not only affordable but also incredibly nutritious. Cooked until the lentils are soft and blended to a smooth consistency, it is often adorned with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika, offering a comforting embrace on a cold night.

2. Tarator (Yogurt Soup)
This unique Turkish yogurt soup is a refreshing choice, especially when served warm. Tarator is typically made with yogurt, cucumbers, walnuts, and garlic. The creamy texture combined with the crunchy ingredients creates a delightful contrast. It’s often served as a side dish but can be a meal in itself when accompanied by crusty bread.

3. Yayla Çorbası (Herbed Yogurt Soup)
Yayla Çorbası is another yogurt-based soup that brilliantly combines rice, mint, and lemon. This rich yet light soup is made by cooking rice in broth and then adding a mixture of yogurt and egg to create a creamy finish. A sprinkle of dried mint gives it an aromatic touch, making it a perfect dish to warm you up on a cold night.

4. Domates Çorbası (Tomato Soup)
Tomato soup may be a common sight across various cuisines, but Turkish Domates Çorbası offers a unique twist. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and garlic, this soup is pureed to achieve a smooth texture, then seasoned with herbs such as basil and thyme. A drizzle of olive oil and a dollop of cream on top elevate this classic comfort food.

5. Kelle Paça Çorbası ( Sheep’s Head Soup)
This traditional Turkish dish may sound adventurous but provides warmth and nutrition. Kelle Paça Çorbası is made from meat, bones, and offal, resulting in a rich broth that is flavorful and hearty. Often seasoned with garlic, vinegar, and lemon, it’s a dish that’s sure to nourish both body and spirit on a frigid night.

6. Çorba Bulgur (Bulgur Soup)
Chewy bulgur adds a distinctive texture to soups in Turkish cuisine. In Çorba Bulgur, this nutritious grain is combined with vegetables and spices, creating a wholesome bowl. Each spoonful is filling and comforting, perfect for warming you from the inside out on those frosty evenings.

7. Aşure Çorbası (Noah’s Pudding Soup)
Although it’s often served as a dessert, Aşure can also be enjoyed as a soup-like dish in winter. Made with a variety of grains, legumes, dried fruits, and nuts, it has a rich texture and layer of flavors. Its nourishing ingredients make it ideal for those cold nights when you want something sweet yet fulfilling.

These soups not only represent the warmth of Turkish hospitality but also reflect the country’s diverse flavors and ingredients. So, when the chilly wind starts to blow, remember these delightful Turkish soups to serve, bringing comfort and joy to your table.