In Turkey, a traditional breakfast – or kahvalti – ranges from region to region but usually consists of cheese, bread, eggs, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and tea.
Moving beyond our preconceptions of breakfast can open our table to a world of dishes. Our take on Turkish breakfast features readily available options that still deliver something new and refreshing to the breakfast table. Plus, with little to no cooking required, it’s perfect for last-minute guests or large groups.
Mix and Match Menu
Our Turkish Breakfast is a perfect guide to a quick, nutritious breakfast. Start with our list and then customize to find your favorite combination of flavors.
Bread
Fresh, whole grain bread or flatbreads, such as naan, lavash or pita
Feta Cheese
Beyaz peynir, a salty unpasteurized cheese, is common
in Turkey but a mild, high-quality feta is a nice substitute
Honey
A touch of local honey adds sweetness to feta and tea alike
Sliced Cucumbers and Tomatoes Drizzled with Olive Oil
Add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, mint or basil
Sliced Sweet Peppers or Green Bell Peppers
Served raw, they add crunch and a crisp bite
Olives
Drizzled in olive oil or marinated with herbs
Tea
A pot of black tea is subtler than coffee and still encourages guests to linger over conversation
Hard Boiled Eggs
Easy to make and store in advance
Jam
Try quince or fig jams. Packed with flavor, a little goes a long way
