A Taste of the Middle East - Turkish Cooking

Turkish cooking reflects its geographical position set as it is half way between Asia and Europe. It is also influenced by history – the Ottaman Empire once extended from the borders of Germany as far as Bagdad, as far north as the edge of Poland and as far south as the islands of Greece.

It seems to me though that it shares much in common with many other Middle Eastern cuisines rather than a strong European influence, despite the fact that it is probably about to join the European Union.

Breads and salads are always served, so see below some classic examples of Turkish cooking.

Pita Bread

Most bread is allowed to rise before being shaped. These little loaves defy that rule. I f the yeast is allowed to do most of its work in the oven then good pockets will form ready to fill with all sorts of goodies. It takes about 1