Turkish Cuisine and Shopping Tips

It is said that three major kinds of cuisine exist in the world. Turkish, Chinese and French. Fully justifying its reputation, Turkish cuisine is always a pleasant surprise for the visitor.

With the new non stop flights from San Francisco, and the increase of major cruise lines stopping in Istanbul, we expect to see an increase in visitors so I am going to share my sixpenny worth of advice on food, and shopping in one of my favorite countries.

In addition to being the refined product of centuries of experience, Turkish cuisine has a very pure quality. The variety and simplicity of the recipes and the quality of the ingredients are guarantees of delicious meals.

Kebabs are dishes of plain or marinated meat either stewed or grilled. Almost every district of Anatolia has its own kebab specialty. Lamb is the basic meat of the Turkish kitchen. Pieces of lamb threaded on a skewer and grilled over charcoal form the famous “sis kebab” now known in many countries.

The aubergine is used in a wide variety of dishes from “karniyarik” to “hunkarbegendi”. Eggplant salad, stuffed eggplants all cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes – good stuff.

Pilav is a rice dish which is difficult for the inexperienced cook to prepare. In the Black Sea region of Turkey they made a great dish with rice and small fish called Hamsili pilav.

Borek are pies of flaky pastry stuffed with meat, cheese or potatoes. The delicious Turkish yoghurt is world renowned.

Dolma is a name applied to vegetables, grape leaves, cabbage leaves and green peppers stuffed with spice rice.
Turkish sweets I love. The best known are baklava and kadayif pastries. Turkish delight is a must to sample.
Among the national drinks, Turkish coffee which comes thick and dark in a small cup. It is strong enough to drive a train. As for Raki, made of anise, it is called a lions drink, because you must be strong as a lion to get it down.

Good restaurants in Istanbul. Feriye Restaurant was an old palace in one of the best spots on the Bosphorus shoreline. Anjelique Restaurant. Lovely view of the bridge and the Bosphorus. Topaz Restaurant, splendid views . good food and atmosphere in all three.

For shopping, I always head to the Grand Bazaar which has over 1000 shops. Punto Rug Gallery and the Istanbul Handicraft Center. Both good places for rugs. Been in the business for many generations.

Tile, pottery and brass or copper items are unique and a wonderful selection in the bazaar.

Last trip I found I got a better price if I showed them my Visa card.

Leather goods are also excellent. Great selection of leather coats, bags, and shoes

You have to plan your sightseeing carefully in this town. All the six main attractions are closed on a different day of the week. The best way to see the town is to have a guide.

Maureen Jones

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.

Photo courtesy of semesteratsea.org