What are you in the mood for?

Table balance

Alongside

Unsalted bread and plenty of water; a second salty side would dull the plate.

Afterwards

After a light main there is room for a syrupy dessert in this meal.

Table balance

Alongside

Pickles or an onion-and-lemon salad: acidity cuts the fat and lightens the plate.

To drink

Ayran (salted yogurt drink) or turnip juice — the classic partner to a rich meat plate. Ayran or plain tea; a sweet drink beside pastry brings on fullness sooner.

Table balance

Alongside

Cacık or plain yogurt: dairy tames chili heat far faster than water does.

Afterwards

Soup opens the meal: if a heavy main follows, keep its portion smaller.

Easy to miss

Iced water only masks the heat for a moment; it comes back quickly.

Table balance

Alongside

A spoon of plain clotted cream or unsalted walnut deepens it without adding weight.

Table balance

Alongside

A spoon of plain clotted cream or unsalted walnut deepens it without adding weight.

Table balance

Alongside

Pickles or an onion-and-lemon salad: acidity cuts the fat and lightens the plate. Cacık or plain yogurt: dairy tames chili heat far faster than water does.

To drink

Ayran (salted yogurt drink) or turnip juice — the classic partner to a rich meat plate.

Afterwards

Plain brewed tea; if you still want dessert, keep the portion small and wait a little.

Easy to miss

Iced water only masks the heat for a moment; it comes back quickly.

Table balance

Alongside

Arugula, lemon and thin-sliced onion; fish needs no heavy sauce beside it.