Elegant fashion, rich history and intricate architecture are reason enough to visit Turkey, but the country’s vibrant food scene truly shines.
With some of the most flavoursome dishes in the world – think borek (savoury filled pastry), kofte (meatballs) and yes, Turkish delight – it’s a food lover’s paradise. We asked Turkish-born Nigar Ivgen owner of the Nazar Group (the talented team behind popular restaurants Bodrum Kitchens, Devon On The Wharf, Deco Eatery, Casablanca and more) about living in New Zealand and what she loves most about Turkey.
How does life in Auckland compare to Turkey?
It’s day and night – life is completely different, and I love both countries in their own ways.
What are some staple foods in Turkish cuisine?
Olive oil, cheeses, tomatoes, olives, cucumber, biber, bread loaves, and jam!
Can you describe Turkish flavours in three words?
Fresh, flavourful, and comforting
What else is Turkey known for other than its fabulous food?
Its colour, vibrancy and the warmth of its people. It’s all encompassing and just a beautiful culture to be a part of.
What’s the first thing you do when you visit the motherland?
Breathe – It takes a while to acclimate to the glorious bedlam of Istanbul and Ankara but the smells, sights and sounds are all I need to ground me back to Turkish life.
What do you miss most about Turkey when you’re away?
My family. I am lucky to have two brothers who live between Australia and New Zealand, but most of my family are in Turkey.
Why do you think Kiwis love Turkish cuisine?
Turkish food is more than just sustenance, it’s a representation of love. We put more than just seasoning into our foods, we put our hearts and our time. Dinner preparation often starts just as lunch has been packed away – our food is not quick, it’s a slow style of dining to be enjoyed with friends, neighbours, family or even alone. But to be enjoyed.
What is the most popular dish on your restaurant menus here in New Zealand?
Lahmajun – our ‘street-style’ Turkish pizza. In the restaurants we serve it pizza-style with minced beef and lamb topped with fresh tomato and rocket. At home, we roll it up and eat it like a wrap – delicious!
What are the must-dos for Kiwis visiting Turkey for the first time?
The Seven Hills of Istanbul, to see the living history. The Bosphorus ferry tour to see Europe and Asia on either side of you. The Grand Bazaar to see amazing colours and drink Turkish tea. The beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coast – Patara and Ölüdeniz beaches are my favourites, and of course Bodrum. And any given local open markets – you’ll find them in every suburb – to enjoy the fresh produce and artisan cheeses breads and olives.
Can you sum up Turkish life in a sentence?
A complex tapestry of history, people, colour, and senses, bound together by time and aged in the sun. Turkish life is steeped in traditions and tea… lots of tea!
