Join us on a walking food tour through Istanbul, where we explore the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine, from traditional cheeses to street food delights. Experience the vibrant spice bazaar, savor local dishes, and discover the cultural significance of each culinary stop along the way.
Today, we embark on a delightful walking food tour through the vibrant city of Istanbul. Guided by Tunch, our knowledgeable host, we dive into the rich tapestry of Turkish cuisine, sampling a variety of dishes that reflect the country’s diverse culinary heritage.
Starting with Cheese
Our culinary journey begins with an introduction to Turkish cheese. Turkey boasts over 200 types of cheese, each varying by region and city. Tunch highlights two favorites:
- Tulum Cheese: This cheese is made from sheep’s milk and aged in goat skin, a traditional method that enhances its flavor. The aging process can last from three months to a year, resulting in a unique taste that is both hygienic and delicious.
- Ain Cheese: Originating from a small city on Turkey’s northwest coast, this cow’s milk cheese is known for its salty flavor and hard texture, which surprisingly melts in your mouth.
As we savor these cheeses, we also enjoy the company of fellow food enthusiasts from around the globe, including couples from Australia, California, and Texas, as well as a solo traveler from Washington, D.C.
The Spice Bazaar Experience
After our delightful breakfast, Tunch leads us to the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Here, we explore stalls filled with vibrant spices and olives. Tunch explains the significance of various spices, including smoked chili, which is commonly used in kebabs. The aroma of spices fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Turkish Coffee and Lentil Soup
Next, we visit a shop specializing in Turkish coffee. Tunch shares the history of coffee in Turkey, tracing its roots back to Yemen in the 16th century. We then enjoy a bowl of lentil soup and a flavorful bayan soup, which features lamb and a blend of spices. The richness of the lamb combined with the spices makes this dish a standout.
For dessert, we indulge in Künefe, a traditional Turkish dessert made with angel hair cheese, offering a sweet and cheesy finish to our meal.
Crossing to the Asian Side
After exploring the European side, we take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul, arriving in Kadıköy. Here, we visit the original restaurant where İskender was invented. This dish consists of lamb served over bread, topped with a rich tomato sauce and a generous amount of melted butter. The flavors are exquisite, showcasing the best of Turkish cuisine.
Pickles and Dolma
Our next stop is a pickle shop, where we sample the tangy pickle juice. Tunch explains the process of making Dolma, which involves stuffing mussels with rice and spices. This dish is a testament to the creativity of Turkish cooking, combining fresh seafood with flavorful ingredients.
Turkish Pizza and Grilled Delights
We then try Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, which features a thin crust topped with minced meat, peppers, and tomatoes. This dish is customizable, allowing us to add cabbage and spices to suit our taste.
Following this, we sample Kokoreç, grilled lamb intestines seasoned with spices and served in bread. This dish is a favorite among locals and offers a unique taste experience.
Concluding with Traditional Sweets
To wrap up our food tour, we enjoy traditional Turkish tea, coffee, baklava, and Turkish ice cream. Each sweet treat highlights the rich flavors and textures that Turkish desserts are known for.
Final Thoughts
Our walking food tour through Istanbul has been a remarkable experience, filled with delicious food and cultural insights. If you find yourself in Istanbul, be sure to schedule a walking food tour to explore the culinary landscape and discover your favorite dishes. This journey not only satisfies the palate but also connects you with the vibrant culture of Turkey.
Thanks for joining us on this culinary adventure. We hope to see you in our next video!
