Turkish cooking is actually very heavily vegetarian. There are a plethora of dishes that showcase the delicious, fresh, seasonal produce so widely available in Türkiye. Many dishes show off produce from a particular area, while others are widely available throughout Türkiye. Turkish food is often made in huge portions, this is because Turkish cooking is made to share with friends and family. Try these vegetarian dishes while you’re visiting - you won’t be disappointed!
1. Yaprak Sarma - Vine Leaf Rolls
Yaprak Sarma is basically vine leaves carefully wrapped around a mixture of rice, currants and sauteed onions. Yaprak Sarmas are hearty appetizers, available year-round. Best enjoyed with lemon juice drizzled over, the sour lemon bringing out the currant's delicate sweetness.
2. Enginar Kalbi - Artichoke Hearts
Artichokes are carefully peeled, leaving only their inner heart. Throughout the winter you’ll often see the peelers in grocery stores working furiously, bags of discarded leaves at their feet, their knives working tirelessly around the artichoke. The artichokes are then cooked to perfection and served with their olive oil and lemon juice preserve.
3. Barbunya - Pinto Beans
Barbunya is another classic Turkish kitchen sample. Made with pinto beans, this dish is filling, tasty and a true comfort food. Pinto beans are cream coloured beans flecked with pink. Cooked to perfection in an onion and tomato sauce, barbunya is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed on its own, with rice or as a meze. This true staple of Turkish cooking can be found in restaurants and homes across the country.
4. Cig Kofte - Bulgur Balls
Cig kofte can be a snack, an appetiser or a meal in its own right. Cig Kofte is bulgur that has been soaked in a richly spiced tomato sauce. The bulgur is clumped together and served with fresh crunchy lettuce leaves, pomegranate molasses and fresh lemon wedges. The crunchy lettuce and acidic lemon cut through the richly flavoured bulgur, lightening each bite.
5. Saksuka - Shakshuka
Saksuka is a dish that celebrates the staples of Turkish cuisine. Eggplants, tomatoes and potatoes are roasted and then covered in a rich tomato-onion sauce. Often served with yoghurt, Saksuka is a fresh, hearty meze or side dish for all to enjoy.
6. Mucver - Fritters
Mucver can be made out of most vegetables, however the most common are zucchini. The zucchini is grated and mixed with fresh dill and parsley before being mixed into a batter and fried. Mucver are delicious with yoghurt or white cheese.
7. Sigara Borek - Turkish Fried Feta Rolls
Turkish Fried Feta Rolls are perfect to be shared or eaten as a quick snack to satiate. Inside the crisp outer shell is a mixture of white cheese and fresh herbs. The salt of the cheese mingles with the satisfying crunch, leaving you wanting just one more, every time.
Afiyet Olsun!
FAQs
As we've already touched on, of all the typical Turkish dishes, the doner kebab is undoubtedly the best known and most popular dish. Its name translates as 'rotating grilled meat'.
What is Turkey's famous dish? ›
As we've already touched on, of all the typical Turkish dishes, the doner kebab is undoubtedly the best known and most popular dish. Its name translates as 'rotating grilled meat'.
Is Turkey considered vegetarian? ›
According to the Vegetarian Society, vegetarians are people who do not eat the products or byproducts of animal slaughter. Vegetarians do not consume: meat, such as beef, pork, and game. poultry, such as chicken, turkey, and duck.
Which is the No 1 vegetarian country in the world? ›
Top 10 Countries with the Most Vegetarians: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, India has the highest percentage of vegetarians in the world, with 38% of the population identifying as vegetarian. Mexico is second, with about 19% of its population identifying as vegetarian.
Which country has the most vegetarian cuisine? ›
India. Three of India's major religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism — teach the practice of ahimsa, or non-violence towards all beings. Because of this religious tradition, India has the highest percentage of vegetarians out of all the countries in the world.
What is the number one Turkish food? ›
Iskender Kebap is a star among the Top Foods To Eat In Turkey. Also known simply as Iskender, it is a popular Turkish dish that originated in Bursa. It consists of thinly sliced döner kebab meat (usually lamb or beef) served over pieces of pide bread, accompanied by a rich tomato sauce and yogurt.
What is Turkey's signature food? ›
Döner kebab, a classic staple of traditional Turkish food, has made a name for itself far beyond Turkey's borders. Renowned for its distinctive preparation, the meat is slow-cooked to perfection on a vertical rotisserie. It's then thinly sliced and often wrapped with a blend of crisp salads and flavorful sauces.
What is a typical Turkish menu? ›
A typical Turkish homemade dinner starts with a warm soup, followed by a dish made of vegetables (zucchini, eggplant, cauliflower, green beans, potatoes, spinach to name a few), meat or legumes (beans, chickpeas, lentils) boiled in a pot and typically served with starchy foods like bread, Turkish rice pilaf, pasta or ...
What is the name of the vegetarian turkey? ›
The Tofurky roast is available three different ways, each version including a stuffed Tofurky; you can buy just the Tofurky, the roast with gravy, or the Holiday Feast, which includes the Tofurky roast, gravy, brownies, a "wishbone," and even a "Happy Tofurky Day" card.
Which religion is completely vegetarian? ›
In Jainism, vegetarianism is mandatory for everyone; in Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism it is promoted by scriptures and religious authorities but not mandatory.
The vast majority of Muslims eat meat; many Islamic jurists consider vegetarianism permissible but not superior to meat-eating.
What is the world's most popular veggie? ›
To ensure that nutritious foods - like tomatoes - are available, affordable, desirable, and convenient, and especially for low-income populations. Tomatoes are the world's most popular vegetable.
What is the most popular type of vegetarian? ›
Lacto-ovo vegetarian: Probably the most popular form of vegetarianism. Lacto-ovo vegetarians avoid meat, poultry, seafood, and fish. Yet, they still eat some animal products, like dairy and eggs. Diets remain mostly plant-based.
