Here are two sample recipes from " Secrets of the Turkish Kitchen "
Ezo Gelin Çorbasi - Daughter-in-law’s soup
Cizbiz Köfte - Sizzling grilled meatballs
The emphasis of Turkish culinary culture is on seasonal freshness. Seasons herald new and tempting produce, tempo changes and different eating habits emerge according to the time of the year. Dishes are prepared in an uncomplicated way to produce a nutritionally balanced meal taking into account harmony of flavours and dietary requirements.
Today in Turkey food and mealtimes are still very much the hub of everyday life. Seldom is food eaten ‘on the hoof’ and time is taken to share meals with family members or friends to relax and enjoy conversation. Always the participants wish each other, ‘afiyet olsun’ – literally meaning, may you be healthy. This is followed by a tribute to the creator of the meal, ‘elinize saglik’ – meaning health to your hands. Guests are always received with the highest cordial hospitality and it is believed no one should ever leave a Turkish table without feeling satisfied and happy.