Turkish: Food & Drink Vocabulary

What is the Turkish word for 'tea,' the most popular hot beverage in Turkey?

Çay (pronounced: chai). It is traditionally served in small, tulip-shaped glasses.

What is the name of the sweet, flaky pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup?

Baklava. It is a world-famous dessert, with the city of Gaziantep being its most famous producer.

What is 'Simit,' a common street food found throughout Turkey?

A circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds, often referred to as a Turkish bagel.

What is the Turkish word for 'coffee,' typically served strong and unfiltered in small cups?

Kahve (pronounced: kah-veh). It is famous for the thick grounds left at the bottom of the cup.

What is 'Döner kebap,' and how is it traditionally prepared?

Seasoned meat (usually lamb or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and sliced thinly.

What is 'Ayran,' and what are its three main ingredients?

A cold, savory beverage made by mixing yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt.

What is 'Mercimek çorbası,' a staple starter in Turkish cuisine?

Red lentil soup, usually served with a lemon wedge and a drizzle of chili-infused butter.

What common phrase is said to someone while they are eating, meaning 'Enjoy your meal'?

Afiyet olsun (pronounced: ah-fee-yet ohl-sun). It literally translates to 'May it be health.'

What does the word 'Kahvaltı' (breakfast) literally translate to in Turkish?

It translates to 'under-coffee' (Kahve-altı), meaning the food eaten before drinking coffee.

Describe 'Lahmacun,' a popular dish often referred to as 'Turkish pizza.'

A very thin, round piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, then baked.