Turkish Sides are an essential part of any meal, adding balance, texture, and vibrant flavors to the table. Picture a feast adorned with colorful dishes, tantalizing aromas, and an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness. In Turkish cuisine, side dishes, or mezze, hold a special place, enhancing the main dishes and bringing people together. From crispy pastries to cooling yogurt dips, Turkish sides offer a variety of tastes and textures.
In this guide, you’ll explore 10 irresistible Turkish side dishes, each easy to prepare and guaranteed to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into these flavorful sides that will bring a delightful touch of Turkish charm to your table.
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What Makes Turkish Side Dishes Special?
Turkish cuisine bridges European, Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors, with mezze (small plates) central to Turkish dining. These sides, made with fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices, showcase the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and cultural tradition. Ingredients like yogurt, olive oil, and eggplants shine in Turkish side dishes, designed to complement main courses without overpowering them.
10 Best Turkish Side Dishes to Try
1. Sigara Böreği (Cheese Rolls)
Sigara Böreği are crunchy, herb-infused cheese rolls wrapped in delicate filo pastry. Perfect as appetizers, these rolls bring a crunchy, creamy bite to any meal.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Filo pastry | 8-10 sheets |
| Feta cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh herbs (parsley, dill) | 2 tbsp each |
| Olive oil | for frying |
- Instructions:
- Mix feta cheese and chopped herbs.
- Place a spoonful of filling on each filo sheet, roll, and seal the edges.
- Fry until golden and crisp, or choose to bake for a healthier alternative.
- Tips: Swap feta with ricotta and add a touch of garlic powder for a variation.
2. Hummus with a Turkish Twist
Traditional hummus meets Turkish flavors, with added cumin and paprika for depth. This creamy dip is a great accompaniment to fresh bread or crunchy raw vegetables.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chickpeas | 1 cup, cooked |
| Tahini | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic | 1-2 cloves |
| Cumin | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | for garnish |
- Instructions:
- Blend the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, cumin, and paprika until smooth and creamy.
- Add lemon juice, and drizzle with olive oil and extra paprika for garnish.
- Tips: Roasted red peppers can deepen the smoky undertones.
3. Patlıcan Ezmesi (Smoky Eggplant Dip)
This creamy, smoky dip made from roasted eggplants and yogurt brings a blend of flavors and a silky texture. . Perfect for serving with warm pita or as a flavorful spread on any bread.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplants | 2 large |
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
- Instructions:
- Roast eggplants until soft, peel and mash them.
- Stir in yogurt, minced garlic, and olive oil, then adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Tips: Add a dash of smoked paprika for extra smokiness.
4. Acılı Ezme (Spicy Tomato and Pepper Dip)
Acılı Ezme is a zesty and fiery dip crafted from fresh tomatoes, peppers, and a rich chili paste. This side dish brings a punch of flavor to your table.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 2 large, finely diced |
| Red pepper | 1, finely diced |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp, chopped |
| Turkish chili paste | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | for drizzling |
- Instructions:
- Finely chop tomatoes, peppers, and parsley.
- Combine with chili paste, a splash of lemon juice, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Tips: Adjust the spice by adding more or less chili paste.
5. Mercimek Köftesi (Lentil Balls)
Mercimek Köftesi are flavorful and soft lentil patties prepared with red lentils and bulgur. This vegan option is hearty, protein-packed, and full of Turkish spices.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red lentils | 1 cup |
| Bulgur | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1 small, finely chopped |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
- Instructions:
- Simmer the lentils until tender, then combine with bulgur and allow to cool.
- Add onions, spices, and parsley, then form into small patties.
- Tips: Serve with fresh lemon wedges to brighten the flavor.
6. Zeytinyağlı Taze Fasulye is a simple and refreshing dish of green beans simmered in olive oil
Slow-cooked in olive oil and tomatoes, these green beans are a light, refreshing side that’s perfect for summer meals.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green beans | 1 lb |
| Tomatoes | 2, diced |
| Onion | 1 small, diced |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
- Instructions:
- Sauté onions in olive oil, add tomatoes, then green beans.
- Cook until beans are tender, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Tips: Add a dash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
7. Cacık (Turkish Yogurt with Cucumber and Mint)
Cacık is a refreshing yogurt-based side dish, similar to tzatziki, and ideal for hot days or as a cooling dip for spicy dishes.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Cucumber | 1, grated |
| Fresh mint | 1 tbsp, chopped |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Salt | to taste |
- Instructions:
- Combine yogurt, grated cucumber, mint, and garlic.
- Season with salt and chill before serving.
- Tips: Garnish with extra mint leaves for a fresh look.
8. Piyaz (Turkish Bean Salad)
Piyaz is a refreshing and savory bean salad, commonly served as a side dish or a light main course.The zesty dressing, paired with vibrant herbs, makes it absolutely irresistible.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White beans | 1 cup, cooked |
| Onion | 1 small, sliced |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp, chopped |
| Sumac | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
- Instructions:
- Mix beans, onion, parsley, and sumac.
- Add olive oil and lemon juice, tossing to coat.
- Tips: Try adding olives or sliced boiled eggs for a heartier version.
9. Bulgur Pilavı (Turkish Bulgur Pilaf)
A staple in Turkish cuisine, Bulgur Pilavı is a hearty, flavorful pilaf with tomatoes and peppers that pairs well with grilled meats or vegetables.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bulgur | 1 cup |
| Tomatoes | 1, diced |
| Green pepper | 1, diced |
| Onion | 1 small, chopped |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
- Instructions:
- Cook the onions and peppers in olive oil until soft, then stir in the bulgur and tomatoes.
- Add water and cook until bulgur is tender, then season to taste.
- Tips: For added protein, try adding chickpeas.
10. Turkish Flatbread (Bazlama)
Bazlama is a soft, round Turkish flatbread that’s perfect for dipping or pairing with any main dish. Serve it warm for the best flavor, with a touch of butter or olive oil.
- Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Warm water | 1 1/2 cups |
| Yeast | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
- Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to a large bowl and mix well. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture, kneading until a soft and elastic dough forms.
- Cover the dough and allow it to rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in volume.
- Next, divide the dough into even portions and roll each one into a ball.Shape each ball into a flat disc, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook each flatbread in a preheated skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden and puffed up.
- Tips: Brush each flatbread with butter or olive oil after cooking for added flavor, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Turkish Sides
What is the most popular Turkish side dish?
Some of the most beloved Turkish sides include Cacık and Sigara Böreği. Each dish offers unique flavors and complements various meals.
Can Turkish sides be made vegan?
Absolutely! Many Turkish side dishes, like Mercimek Köftesi and Acılı Ezme, are naturally vegan.
How do Turkish and Greek mezze differ from each other?
While similar, Turkish mezze often use unique spices like Turkish chili paste, bringing a distinct flavor to the dishes.
Conclusion:
Turkish side dishes are a testament to the beauty and variety of Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re trying these sides with traditional Turkish main courses or simply adding a twist to your own meals, you’ll find each dish rich in flavor and easy to enjoy. So, why not bring a bit of Turkey into your kitchen tonight?