Foods with Different Names in İzmir

İzmir stands out with its rich cuisine as well as its historical and natural beauties. İzmir foods and İzmir flavors, one of the most unique and healthy components of Aegean cuisine, decorate tables with flavors specific to this region. These herbs, which are both a source of flavor and healing, have been a source of nutrition and natural healing for centuries. The unique flavors of Turkish cuisine are known by different names in İzmir.

Gevrek

The sesame ring bread known as 'simit' in most of Turkey is called 'gevrek' in İzmir. Because İzmir simit is thinner, crispier and toasted in the oven again after cooking. Therefore, it is really much crispier. Gevrek, a street delicacy in Izmir, has become an indispensable part of breakfasts.

Çiğdem

It is the special name that the people of Izmir give to sunflower seeds: çiğdem. Even the way these seeds are eaten is different for those living in the city: “Çitlenir.” It is a tradition to chat on a summer evening in Izmir with a paper bag full of crocuses in your hand. As part of Izmir’s flavors and traditions, tasting crocuses is a pleasant way to get to know the city better.

Tomato

The vegetable that all of Turkey calls “tomato” is simply called “domat” in Izmir. It is both easier to say and sounds more sincere. This usage is common not only in Izmir but also in many parts of the Aegean. These local terms specific to Aegean cuisine reflect the cultural richness of the region.

Kumru

This legendary sandwich specific to Izmir is made with special sesame kumru bread and has plenty of ingredients inside: sucuk, salami, kashar cheese, tomatoes, pickles… It is also made in other cities of Turkey, but real kumru is eaten in Izmir. One of the most preferred street delicacies of Izmir, kumru is an indispensable taste for those who want to get to know the city's cuisine.

Şambali

Generally known as the “Damascus dessert”, şambali is a dessert made with semolina, yogurt, and sugar, and topped with pistachios or clotted cream. You can come across this sherbet-based dessert in every corner of Izmir, and it has become especially identified with street vendors. Şambali, which has an important place among the flavors of İzmir, is a perfect choice for those who like sweets.

Pastiç

Although it resembles moon cake, pastiç, which is specific to İzmir patisseries, offers a different flavor with its cinnamon, raisin and cocoa filling. Usually exhibited in patisserie windows, this flavor goes deliciously with coffee. Pastiche is an indispensable choice for those who love İzmir street flavors and patisserie flavors.

Eggplant Çığırtma

Originated from the Bergama region, this dish is prepared by cooking coarsely chopped eggplants with tomatoes. Although it is similar to şakşuka and imam bayıldı, eggplant çığirtma is different with its simple ingredients and no onion. It tastes much better after resting in the refrigerator overnight. One of the original dishes of Turkish cuisine and especially Aegean cuisine, eggplant çığirtma is a taste that must be tried.

Izmir's Cultural Flavor Language

The different names that the people of Izmir give to food are also an indicator of the city's cultural structure and the enjoyable approach to daily life. These names both strengthen the sense of belonging of the local people and offer an entertaining discovery experience for those visiting Izmir. Discovering the richness of Izmir's street flavors and Aegean cuisine culture is a pleasant way to get to know the city and its cuisine.