Traditional Ankara Dishes You Can’t Miss
Ankara Tava: A Culinary Staple
Imagine the aroma of succulent lamb mingling with fragrant rice, a symphony of flavors that instantly transports you to the heart of Turkey. Ankara Tava, translating literally to “Ankara Pan,” is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary cornerstone of the city. Imagine tender pieces of lamb, slow-cooked to perfection until they practically melt in your mouth, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice pilaf. The rice, often infused with subtle spices and herbs, absorbs the rich flavors of the lamb, creating a harmonious balance that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. The secret to a truly great Ankara Tava lies in the quality of the lamb and the careful attention to detail in the cooking process. The lamb must be tender, not gamey, and the rice pilaf must be light and fluffy, not mushy.
This dish has a rich history in Ankara, dating back generations. It was traditionally prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, a symbol of hospitality and abundance. Today, Ankara Tava remains a staple in many Ankara restaurants. For an authentic experience, head to local establishments tucked away in the older parts of the city. Look for restaurants that specialize in traditional Turkish cuisine and have a reputation for using fresh, high-quality ingredients. One might have to ask around, but discovering these hidden gems is part of the adventure. They may not have the flashiest decor, but the food will undoubtedly speak for itself.
Beypazarı Güveci: A Taste of the Countryside
Venture just outside Ankara, and you’ll discover the charming town of Beypazarı, famous for its Güveci. This stew, cooked in an earthenware pot, is a rustic delight, showcasing the region’s fresh produce and hearty flavors. The Güveci typically includes a medley of tender meat (often lamb or beef), rice, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various spices, all simmered together in the earthenware pot until the flavors meld into a rich and comforting stew.
The slow cooking process in the earthenware pot is crucial to the dish’s unique flavor. The pot retains heat evenly, allowing the ingredients to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in incredibly tender meat and intensely flavorful vegetables. The earthiness of the pot itself also imparts a subtle, unique flavor to the stew. While Beypazarı Güveci is best enjoyed in its namesake town, many restaurants in Ankara offer their own versions of this rustic delight. Look for restaurants that pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and that cook their Güveci in traditional earthenware pots. The taste is worth the search.
Çubuk Turşusu: A Tangy Tradition
No culinary exploration of Ankara is complete without experiencing Çubuk Turşusu. Çubuk, a district near Ankara, is renowned for its pickled vegetables, known as Turşusu. This tangy and flavorful condiment is a staple in Turkish cuisine and a particular point of pride for the Ankara region. The pickling process involves preserving various vegetables, such as cucumbers, peppers, cabbage, carrots, and green beans, in a brine solution of vinegar, salt, and spices. The result is a crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy treat that is both refreshing and addictive.
Çubuk Turşusu is more than just a condiment; it’s a way of preserving the bounty of the harvest and enjoying fresh produce year-round. It’s also believed to have various health benefits, thanks to the fermentation process. You’ll find Çubuk Turşusu sold in jars throughout Ankara, at markets, specialty food shops, and even some restaurants. Be sure to sample a variety of different vegetables to discover your favorites. It is the perfect accompaniment to any meal in Ankara.
Testi Kebabı: A Dramatic Delight
For a dining experience that is both delicious and theatrical, try Testi Kebabı. This dish, meaning “Pot Kebab,” consists of meat (usually lamb or beef) and vegetables cooked in a sealed clay pot. The pot is then brought to your table, where the server dramatically cracks it open, releasing a cloud of fragrant steam and revealing the tender, flavorful kebab inside. The presentation is just as exciting as the food itself.
The Testi Kebabı is a culinary tradition rooted in Central Anatolia, and while not strictly unique to Ankara, it has been embraced by many restaurants in the city. The slow cooking process in the clay pot allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of the vegetables and spices. The vegetables, typically including potatoes, carrots, onions, and peppers, absorb the rich juices of the meat, creating a symphony of flavors. Finding a restaurant that serves a well-prepared Testi Kebabı is a must for any foodie visiting Ankara. The experience is worth every lira.
Exploring Ankara’s Street Food Scene
Döner Kebab: A Timeless Classic
Döner Kebab, a rotating stack of seasoned meat cooked vertically and shaved off in thin slices, is a Turkish street food staple enjoyed worldwide. While döner is ubiquitous throughout Turkey, Ankara offers its own unique variations and high-quality döner shops. Look for shops that use locally sourced meat and prepare their döner with traditional methods. A freshly made Döner Kebab, served in a warm piece of bread with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces, is the perfect on-the-go meal.
Kokoreç: For the Adventurous Palate
For those with a more adventurous palate, Kokoreç is a must-try. This street food delicacy consists of seasoned sheep intestines wrapped around a metal skewer and grilled over charcoal. The intestines are typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including oregano, cumin, and red pepper flakes. While the thought of eating intestines may be off-putting to some, those who dare to try Kokoreç are often rewarded with a unique and flavorful experience. The grilling process gives the Kokoreç a crispy exterior and a tender, slightly chewy interior. It’s often served chopped up in a piece of bread with plenty of spices and herbs. Ankara has many late night Kokoreç shops for an after-event snack.
Midye Dolma: A Taste of the Sea
Midye Dolma, or stuffed mussels with rice, is a popular street food snack found throughout Turkey. The mussels are typically filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, spices, and currants, then steamed until tender. The result is a flavorful and satisfying bite-sized treat. Be sure to look for vendors that offer fresh and well-prepared Midye Dolma, as quality can vary. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavors.
Simit: The Perfect On-the-Go Snack
Simit, a sesame-covered bread ring, is a ubiquitous street food snack in Turkey. It’s similar to a bagel, but with a slightly sweeter and more nutty flavor, thanks to the sesame seeds. Simit is the perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. You’ll find simit vendors on almost every street corner in Ankara. Grab one fresh from the oven for the best experience.
Hidden Culinary Gems and Local Favorites
Esnaf Lokantaları: A Taste of Home Cooking
Esnaf Lokantaları, translating to “Tradesmen’s Restaurants,” are small, family-run restaurants that cater to local workers and offer a variety of homemade dishes at affordable prices. These restaurants are often hidden away in side streets and are a great place to experience authentic Turkish cuisine. The food is typically simple, hearty, and delicious, reflecting the culinary traditions of the region. You can expect to find dishes like lentil soup, stuffed vegetables, stews, and grilled meats.
Kahvaltı: The Turkish Breakfast Experience
Turkish breakfast, or Kahvaltı, is an elaborate spread of various dishes, including cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, honey, eggs, and bread. It’s a social affair, often enjoyed with family and friends on weekends. Many restaurants and cafes in Ankara offer Kahvaltı, ranging from simple to extravagant. Finding one with local honey and jams is the mark of a special meal.
Pastaneler: Sweet Indulgences
Pastaneler, or pastry shops, are abundant in Ankara, offering a tempting array of cakes, pastries, and desserts. From traditional Turkish delights like baklava and künefe to more modern creations, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as irmik helvası (semolina halva) or sütlaç (rice pudding).
Ankara’s Drink Culture
Turkish Tea: A Social Ritual
Turkish tea, or Çay, is an integral part of Turkish social culture. It’s served in small, tulip-shaped glasses and enjoyed throughout the day. Cafes and tea gardens are abundant in Ankara, providing the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a cup of tea.
Turkish Coffee: A Tradition Rich in History
Turkish coffee, or Türk Kahvesi, is a strong, unfiltered coffee brewed in a cezve (a small copper pot) and served in small cups. The coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, and it is customary to read fortunes in the remaining grounds after the coffee is finished.
Ayran: A Refreshing Yogurt Drink
Ayran, a yogurt-based drink, is a popular and refreshing beverage in Turkey. It’s made by mixing yogurt with water and salt and is often enjoyed with meals, particularly during the summer months.
Local Wine and Beer: A Growing Scene
While not as well-known as other regions, Ankara and its surrounding areas are starting to develop a local wine and beer scene. Look for restaurants and bars that offer locally produced wines and beers.
Tips for Food Explorers in Ankara
Here are a few tips to enhance your food exploration in Ankara:
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases, such as “Merhaba” (Hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you), and “Afiyet olsun” (Enjoy your meal).
- Dining etiquette in Turkey is generally informal. It’s customary to leave a small tip for good service.
- Ankara has good public transportation but taxis are also easily available.
- Be mindful of food safety, especially when eating street food. Choose vendors that appear clean and hygienic.
Conclusion
Ankara’s food scene is a hidden gem, offering a unique and authentic taste of Turkish cuisine. From the traditional dishes like Ankara Tava and Beypazarı Güveci to the vibrant street food and the hidden culinary gems, there’s something to delight every palate. So, venture beyond the typical tourist destinations and embark on a culinary journey through Ankara. Discover the flavors, aromas, and traditions that make this city a true foodie paradise. Don’t just visit Ankara; taste Ankara!
