The Best of Turkish Breakfast

Here in Kalkan there are many fantastic breakfast dishes to discover, many making use of local produce fresh from the rich Meditteranean region and climate. By tradition, a Turkish breakfast is not to be rushed, which makes Kalkan's mesmerising sea views over the Turkish Riviera the perfect backdrop to savour every bite.

Turkish breakfast, known as "kahvaltı," (kah-val-tuh) is a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Turkey. It's not just a meal but a ritual, a time for families and friends to gather around the table and savour a variety of flavours, textures, and aromas. From its diverse ingredients to its cultural significance, there is an array to explore and discover from the vibrant world of the Turkish breakfast. 

The Serpme:

A typical Turkish breakfast spread, or 'serpme', is a feast for the senses, featuring an array of dishes catering to savoury and sweet palates. At the heart of the spread is freshly baked bread, and various cheeses such as beyaz peynir (white cheese) and kaşar (yellow cheese). Fresh produce is an essential feature, from olives, tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers to fresh herbs like parsley and dill.

Börek:

Turkish börek delights with its delicate layers of flaky pastry enveloping savoury fillings, whether filled with spinach and feta, minced meat, or creamy cheese, this beloved dish is rooted in centuries of tradition and showcases the artistry of Turkish cuisine. The classic spinach and feta combination of "ıspanaklı börek" is a classic at breakfast time. Favourites for the best Turkish breakfast börek style include "Su böreği", soaked in a milk and egg mixture filled with crumbly soft Lor cheese, "Sigara böreği", baked or fried, delights with its cigar-like shape and savoury filling and "patatesli börek", a comforting blend of potatoes, onions, and herbs. Each type and each bite, region to region, is a culinary marvel that captivates both the palate and the imagination making börek a cherished part of Turkish culinary heritage. Kalkan's bakery and cake shops offer a delightful array of fresh böreks, always best served warm.

Simit:

Simit is a quintessential Turkish bread, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into creamy spreads like bal-kaymak. For those with a sweet tooth, bal-kaymak is a must-try, consisting of creamy kaymak drizzled with golden honey, creating a decadent treat that melts in your mouth. Pekmez (grape molasses), Tahin (sesame seed paste) and soft Beyaz peynir are classic favourites to enjoy with Simit. 

Menemen:

A popular Turkish breakfast dish, menemen is a hearty scramble made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers and spices like paprika and cumin. It's bursting with flavour and pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread.

Sucuklu Yumurta:

Another favourite is sucuklu yumurta, a satisfying dish that provides a kick to start your day with the combination of spicy Turkish sausage (sucuk) cooked with eggs. 

Çay:

No Turkish breakfast is complete without çay, or Turkish tea. Served in tulip-shaped glasses, çay is strong and aromatic, providing the perfect accompaniment to the rich and savoury dishes. No matter which style of breakfast you feast on, everything tastes better with freshly brewed çay.

Turkish breakfast is a celebration of flavours, textures and traditions, drawing inspiration from various regions and cultures with each dish reflecting Turkey's diverse culinary heritage. Turkish breakfast is more than just a meal; it's a social institution that brings people together. Families often gather around the breakfast table on weekends, spending hours chatting, laughing and enjoying each other's company. It's a time to slow down, savour each bite, and appreciate life's simple pleasures. What better way to start each day of your holiday here in Kalkan!