The Sumptuous, Scrumptious Turkish Breakfast

So, one of the major concerns we have while traveling, (also a major opportunity) is Food.  Constraint because we are lacto-ovo vegetarians, and opportunity, because within that constraint, we are open to literally trying everything. So, the first thing when we talk about Turkey – is a big, hearty Turkish breakfast. Lots of salads, jams, cheese and breads for vegetarians, but ohh so tasty!

Salad counter at a typical Turkish breakfast. Apart from one dish, all vegetarian!

Plenty of cereals to choose from!

And breads too!!

From fixing a salad with fresh tomatoes, olives and cheese (A typical breakfast buffet consists of 8-10 types of cheese, each tastier than the previous). Then there is Menemen (which is a cross between scrambled eggs, and omelettes), and consists of eggs mixed with red and green peppers,  tomatoes, and spices. 

Menemen

Eaten with bread, to me this dish is the ultimate fusion of east meets west. If you are a fan of bread, chances are that you will like the Borek (Thin pastry filled with spinach and cheese) or the Cigara Boregi - think Spring roll on the outside, and mozzarella/ cheddar heaven on the inside. All the dishes were scrumptious, and we ended up spending about an hour everyday in trying all these dishes and more. And if you want to get started with a sweet tooth in the morning, why not try some fresh honeycomb? Yes, that’s a thing!

Fresh Honeycomb..

Once done and swearing to ourselves that this was the last meal we had for the day, we ventured out of our hotel , walked up to Topkapi palace, and took a left for the boulevard where you have the Hagia Sophia Museum on one side, and the Blue Mosque on the other. That’s when the street food starts beckoning you. From fresh pomegranate juices, to Limonita (Home-made lemonade), and even with a filled stomach, we had to get a drink! Oh, picked up a Simit to go as well (That’s a sesame bagel, eaten plain or with Nutella topping – Turkey is one of the higher per capita consumers of Nutella, and hence, its ubiquitousness).

Breakfasty street food

It’s just day 1 and by the time we reach lunch time, we are already packed to the rafters. It’s really a wrap for the day. Our lunch will have to wait until tomorrow….