Turkey boasts a rich culinary tradition, and its desserts are no exception. There’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Here are some of the best desserts you can try in Turkey:
Classics with a Twist:
- Baklava: This iconic dessert needs no introduction. Flaky layers of phyllo pastry, filled with nuts and drenched in syrup, come in various versions like pistachio, walnut, and even chocolate. Indulge at Karaköy Güllüoğlu or try a modern twist with ice cream at Gulluoglu Galata.
- Lokum: (Turkish delight): Bite-sized cubes of gelatinous candy dusted with powdered sugar, available in countless flavors like rose, pomegranate, and pistachio. Head to Koska for their traditional varieties or try unexpected flavors at Haci Bekir.
- Künefe: Shredded phyllo dough filled with cheese or nuts, baked until golden, and drizzled with syrup. For a classic experience, visit Hatay Ekol Künefe, or try a twist with chocolate at MADO.
- Aşure (Noah’s Ark Pudding): This rich pudding commemorates Noah’s Ark and is packed with symbolism. It contains various grains, legumes, dried fruits, and nuts, simmered in a sweet, spiced broth. Each ingredient represents an element stored on the ark.
- İrmik Helvası (Semolina Halva): This granular dessert is made with semolina flour, butter, sugar, milk, and pine nuts. The simple ingredients are transformed into a sweet and nutty treat, often served dusted with cinnamon.
Beyond the Familiar:
- Kazandibi: Creamy milk pudding with a caramelized top, offering a delightful textural contrast. Head to Sütiş for their authentic version or try a modern interpretation at Lokma.
- Katmer (Pistachio Pancake): This unique dessert hails from Gaziantep and features a thin, crispy pancake filled with chopped pistachios and drizzled with syrup. It’s sometimes served with clotted cream or yogurt for an extra layer of richness.
- Tulumba: Deep-fried pastry puffs soaked in syrup, offering a delightful crunch and sweetness. Sample them fresh at street vendors or indulge in a gourmet version at Hamdi Pastanesi.
- Gullaç: Thin sheets of phyllo dough layered with rosewater milk and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, offering a light and refreshing treat. Enjoy it during Ramadan at traditional shops or try a modern version at Zest İstanbul.
Hidden Gems:
- Cevizli Sucuk: “Walnut Sausage” isn’t what it seems! This sweet is made with walnuts, grape must, and spices, offering a unique chewy and sweet texture. Find them at local markets or specialty shops like Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir.
- Şekerpare: Semolina cookies soaked in syrup, offering a delicate melt-in-your-mouth experience. Sample them from local bakeries like Baylan Pastanesi or try a modern take at Pâtisserie Meşrutiyet.
- Tavuk Göğsü: Chicken breast pudding might sound unusual, but this creamy and subtly sweet dessert is a must-try. Head to Murat Muhallebicisi for the traditional version or try a modern twist at Mısır Çarşısı.
- Turkish Ice Cream (Dondurma): This unique ice cream is known for its thick, stretchy texture and intense flavors. It’s made with salep, a flour derived from orchid bulbs, which gives it its characteristic elasticity. Dondurma is often sold by street vendors who put on a show while scooping it.
- Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı): This traditional dessert features slices of pumpkin simmered in syrup and then spiced with cinnamon and cloves. It’s a comforting and flavorful treat, especially during the colder months.
Bonus Tip:
Don’t forget to try Turkish coffee or apple tea alongside your dessert for a truly authentic experience.
Best Restaurants in Istanbul:
- Karaköy Güllüoğlu: This historic bakery is renowned for its traditional and innovative takes on baklava. Their pistachio and walnut varieties are classics, but try their seasonal options like quince or fig.
- Gulluoglu Galata: This modern branch of the Güllüoğlu family offers a chic ambiance and unique baklava creations like chocolate and orange or rose and pistachio.
- Koska: A beloved institution since 1781, Koska offers a variety of traditional lokum flavrs alongside unique options like bergamot and cinnamon.
- Hatay Ekol Künefe: This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic Hatay-style künefe, made with mozzarella cheese and drizzled with a special syrup.
- MADO: This popular chain offers a variety of künefe options, including classic, chocolate, and even pistachio versions. They also have other delicious desserts like dondurma (Turkish ice cream).
- Sütiş: This traditional dessert shop is famous for its kazandibi, with a perfectly caramelized top and creamy pudding base.
- Lokma: With a focus on modern interpretations of Turkish desserts, Lokma offers a unique take on kazandibi with rosewater and pistachio.
- Pâtisserie Meşrutiyet: This modern patisserie puts a gourmet spin on traditional Turkish desserts, including their delectable şekerpare with a touch of orange blossom water.
- Murat Muhallebicisi: This traditional establishment is renowned for its creamy and subtly sweet tavuk göğsü, a must-try for those curious about this unique dessert.
These are some Famous Restaurants in Istanbul.
So, pack your appetite and adventurous spirit, and embark on a sweet and savory journey through Istanbul’s culinary wonderland. From the iconic classics to the hidden gems, each bite promises a unique taste of history, tradition, and pure delight. Bon appétit!