Turkish meze is more than just food; it’s an experience. Known for its bold and vibrant flavours, meze consists of various small dishes, allowing you to savour the essence of Turkish cuisine. Whether served cold or hot, meze dishes are perfect for sharing and offer a unique way to sample a range of tastes in one meal. From creamy dips to crispy bites, each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and fresh ingredients.
Ready to explore the world of Turkish meze? Let’s take a closer look at these mouthwatering options, which bring the authentic taste of Turkey to your table.
The Ultimate Guide to Turkish Meze Favourites
Cold Meze Starters
Humus
A beloved classic, humus is a creamy blend of crushed chickpeas, rich tahini, zesty lemon juice, fresh garlic, and high-quality olive oil. Its smooth, nutty flavour pairs perfectly with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying way to start your meze experience.
Babaganush
This smoky aubergine dip captures the deep, earthy flavours of grilled aubergine, combined with tahini, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. The aubergines are roasted until soft, giving the dip its signature velvety texture and slightly smoky taste. It’s perfect for dipping with warm bread or crisp vegetable sticks.
Tarama
A seafood delicacy, tarama is a creamy dip made from smoked cod roe, blended with olive oil, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs. It has a rich, salty flavour with a touch of citrus that makes it a unique choice for those who appreciate seafood. Often served with fresh bread, it adds a savoury touch to any meze spread.
Cacik
Cacik is a refreshing yoghurt-based dip, similar to Greek tzatziki, made with finely chopped cucumber, garlic, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s light, cooling, and full of flavour, making it the perfect counterbalance to richer, spicier dishes.
Sarma
Sarma, or stuffed vine leaves, are a beloved part of Turkish cuisine. Tender vine leaves are carefully wrapped around a filling of seasoned rice, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, creating a burst of flavour in every bite. These bite-sized rolls are a popular choice for those looking for a light yet flavourful meze option.
Saksuka
A staple in many Turkish households, saksuka is a vibrant blend of fried aubergine, potatoes, and peppers, combined in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. It’s a hearty, flavour-packed dish that adds a touch of warmth and spice to any meze platter.
For a full range of Turkish meze options, be sure to check out our menu, where we offer these authentic dishes alongside many other traditional Turkish favourites.
Hot Meze Starters
Falafel
Falafel is a popular vegetarian option, made from ground chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices, shaped into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavourful centre, it’s a delicious choice for any meze lover.
Sigara Borek
These crispy, savoury pastries are filled with creamy feta cheese and fresh herbs, rolled into thin, cigar-shaped pieces, and fried until perfectly crisp. They are a must-try for cheese lovers, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Icli Kofte
Known as Turkish stuffed meatballs, icli kofte are made with a crispy bulgur wheat shell, stuffed with seasoned minced meat, onions, and spices. These handmade treats are a perfect balance of textures, with a crispy outside and a juicy, flavourful filling.
Conclusion
Turkish meze is a tasty way to enjoy many small dishes from Turkey. Some are hot, some are cold, and each one has its own special flavour. From creamy dips to crispy bites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you want to try real Turkish food, come visit our Turkish restaurant in Woking. We serve delicious meals in a friendly place where you can relax and enjoy the taste of Turkey. And if you like flavourful food with a little spice, be sure to try our easy Turkish Chicken Wings Recipe, it’s perfect for sharing!
FAQs
What is Turkish meze?
Turkish meze is a collection of small, flavourful dishes typically served as appetisers. They can be either hot or cold and often include a variety of dips, salads, and bite-sized treats that capture the essence of Turkish cuisine.
Why is meze important in Turkish culture?
Meze is more than just a meal; it’s a social tradition. It encourages sharing, conversation, and connection, making it a key part of Turkish hospitality.
What are some common cold meze dishes?
Popular cold meze options include humus, cacik (yoghurt and cucumber dip), babaganush (smoky aubergine dip), and sarma (stuffed vine leaves).
What are hot meze dishes?
Hot meze dishes often include items like sigara borek (crispy cheese rolls), falafel, and icli kofte (stuffed meatballs). These dishes are known for their bold, savoury flavours.
How is meze typically served?
Meze is usually served on small plates, allowing guests to sample a variety of flavours in one meal. It is often enjoyed with fresh bread and a selection of dips.
Is Turkish meze healthy?
A: Many meze dishes are made with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy oils, making them a nutritious choice. However, some items like fried falafel or sigara borek can be richer.
