Top 10 Vegetarian & Vegan Foods to Try in Turkey – What They Are and Why You Should Try Them 🥙🌿
Turkey is often known for its kebabs and meaty dishes — but what many travelers don’t realize is that Turkish cuisine is incredibly vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. Thanks to the country’s rich use of fresh vegetables, legumes, grains, and olive oil, you’ll find a wide variety of flavorful plant-based dishes across local restaurants and street food stalls.
If you're traveling through Istanbul, Cappadocia, or any corner of Turkey, here are 10 must-try vegetarian and vegan Turkish dishes — and why you should make room for them on your plate!
1. Çiğ Köfte – Spicy Vegan Patties 🌶️
What it is: A mix of fine bulgur, tomato paste, olive oil, herbs, and spices hand-kneaded into soft, spicy “meatballs.” Traditionally made with raw meat, the modern version is now completely vegan.
Why try it: Bold in flavor, satisfying in texture, and served in a fresh lettuce leaf or wrap — it's healthy, filling, and a true street food favorite.
2. İmam Bayıldı – Stuffed Eggplant with Olive Oil 🍆
What it is: A soft, oven-baked eggplant filled with onions, tomatoes, and garlic, simmered in olive oil.
Why try it: The name means “the imam fainted” (allegedly from how delicious it was). It’s rich, juicy, and a staple in traditional Turkish home cooking.
3. Mercimek Köftesi – Lentil Balls 🌱
What it is: Red lentils blended with bulgur, tomato paste, and herbs, shaped into small patties.
Why try it: Served cold with a squeeze of lemon and fresh lettuce, this vegan delight is protein-packed and popular for a reason — it’s light, tangy, and very satisfying.
4. Barbunya Pilaki – Cranberry Beans in Olive Oil
What it is: Borlotti or cranberry beans cooked with carrots, onions, and tomatoes in olive oil.
Why try it: This cold meze dish is super nutritious, subtly sweet, and often served as part of a meze spread.
5. Dolma – Stuffed Vine Leaves 🍃
What it is: Grape leaves wrapped around a flavorful mix of rice, pine nuts, currants, and spices.
Why try it: The perfect blend of sweet and savory. Dolma is vegan, bite-sized, and full of Mediterranean flavor.
6. Gözleme – Traditional Turkish Flatbread 🫓
What it is: A hand-rolled flatbread stuffed with fillings like spinach, potato, mushrooms, or vegan cheese alternatives, then cooked on a griddle.
Why try it: Crispy outside, warm and flavorful inside — perfect for lunch or a snack on the go.
7. Pide – Turkish Flatbread Pizza 🍕
What it is: Boat-shaped flatbread topped with various vegetarian ingredients like cheese, egg, or veggies.
Why try it: A lighter, more local version of pizza. Ask for vegetarian-only toppings or try it with mushrooms and peppers for a vegan option.
8. Kısır – Bulgur Salad 🥗
What it is: A cold salad made from fine bulgur, tomatoes, parsley, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice.
Why try it: It’s a refreshing, zesty salad full of flavor and texture — and totally vegan.
9. Simit – Turkish Sesame Bagel 🥯
What it is: A crispy, sesame-crusted bread ring sold on nearly every corner in Turkey.
Why try it: A classic on-the-go vegan snack. Enjoy it with a glass of Turkish tea as locals do.
10. Piyaz – White Bean Salad with Tahini
What it is: A protein-rich salad of white beans, onions, parsley, and sumac — sometimes with a tahini-based dressing.
Why try it: It’s fresh, tangy, and filling. A great way to fuel up for more sightseeing or snacking.
Bonus Tip: Want to Taste Them All?
Join our vegetarian food tour in Istanbul’s Kadıköy neighborhood — the local heart of flavor and culture on the Asian side of the city. Our 2.5-hour tour features all the classics, led by a local guide who knows exactly where to find the best hidden gems.
👉 Book your spot now at www.foodprint.tours
Final Thoughts
Being vegetarian or vegan in Turkey is easier (and tastier!) than you think. With so many naturally plant-based dishes, you’ll never feel like you’re missing out — in fact, you might just fall in love with Turkish food.
Come hungry, leave happy, and experience the real taste of Turkey — one bite at a time. 🌿🍽️🇹🇷
