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.

Afterwards

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

Easy to miss

On a meze table balance beats variety: one yogurt-based, one olive-oil, one sharp is enough.

Table balance

Afterwards

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

Easy to miss

On a meze table balance beats variety: one yogurt-based, one olive-oil, one sharp is enough.

Table balance

Afterwards

Soup opens the meal: if a heavy main follows, keep its portion smaller. After a light main there is room for a syrupy dessert in this meal.

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

Table balance

Alongside

A lemon wedge and fresh bread; a heavy meat plate alongside would hide the dish entirely.

Afterwards

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

Easy to miss

Olive-oil dishes are not eaten straight from the fridge; the aroma opens near room temperature.

Table balance

Alongside

A lemon wedge and fresh bread; a heavy meat plate alongside would hide the dish entirely.

Afterwards

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

Easy to miss

Olive-oil dishes are not eaten straight from the fridge; the aroma opens near room temperature.