Dürüm, Kumpir, Balık-Ekmek: Turkish Street Foods You Don’t Want To Miss Out On

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, you’re in for a treat when it comes to food. Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique spices. And when it comes to street food, Turkey has some of the best in the world. Here are three Turkish street foods you don’t want to miss out on: Dürüm, Kumpir, and Balık-Ekmek.

Dürüm: The Turkish Wrap

Dürüm is a popular street food in Turkey that’s similar to a wrap or burrito. It’s made with thin lavash bread, which is filled with a variety of ingredients such as lamb, chicken, beef, or vegetables. The meat is usually cooked on a vertical spit, or a “döner kebab,” which is a common sight in Turkish street food stalls.

The meat is sliced thin and placed on the lavash bread, along with lettuce, tomato, onions, and sometimes cheese. Then, it’s rolled up like a wrap and grilled until crispy. The result is a delicious, savory sandwich that’s easy to eat on the go. If you’re looking for a classic dürüm, try one with lamb. The tender meat is seasoned with Turkish spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, giving it a unique flavor that’s both bold and comforting.

Kumpir: A Loaded Baked Potato

Kumpir is a beloved street food in Turkey that’s perfect for those who love potatoes. It’s essentially a baked potato that’s been loaded up with a variety of toppings, including butter, cheese, olives, pickles, corn, and even hot dogs. The result is a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

The key to a good kumpir is the toppings. Most street vendors will offer a variety of toppings, but some of the most popular include sour cream, chives, and diced bell peppers. You can also add protein like chicken or beef to make it more filling. One thing to note is that kumpir can be quite filling, so it’s best to share with a friend or save it for later if you’re not very hungry. But if you’re looking for a filling and tasty version of Turkish street foods, kumpir is definitely worth trying.

Balık-Ekmek: The Fish Sandwich

Balık-Ekmek, or “fish bread,” is a classic Turkish street food that’s especially popular in coastal cities like Istanbul. It’s essentially a sandwich made with fresh grilled fish, lettuce, onion, and sometimes tomato, all served on a soft bun. The fish used in balık-ekmek is usually mackerel or sea bass. It is grilled over an open flame and served piping hot. The sandwich is simple but delicious, with the fresh fish complemented perfectly by the crisp lettuce and tangy onion.

To make it even more delicious, some vendors will add a dollop of spicy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice. And if you’re lucky, you might even get a side of fresh pickles to enjoy with your sandwich. Balık-Ekmek is the perfect street food for a hot summer day, as it’s light and refreshing while still being filling. If you’re in Istanbul or any other coastal city in Turkey, be sure to try this classic street food.