One of the popular Turkish street foods is also the stuffed baked potato called kumpir. It is a meal that will keep you full for a long time. The preparation of kumpir is simple. A large baked potato is cut in half, the inside is mixed with butter, and a creamy mashed potato is created directly inside the potato. The potato is then filled with other ingredients, such as cheese, olives, pickles, sausage, corn…
The origin of kumpir can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was a popular dish among the lower classes. Modern variations of kumpir include, in addition to traditional fillings, various options with meat or mayonnaise salads. Thanks to this diversity, kumpir is a dish that can taste different every time.
In Istanbul, you can find kumpir at the Patatos bistro on the popular shopping street İstiklal Cd. There will probably be a long queue in front of the establishment, as the preparation of kumpir is interesting and tempting for tourists.
I couldn’t resist either, and when I saw kumpir for the first time, I tasted it. It is indeed a very hearty meal that will keep you full for a long time. The option to combine fillings is promising, but in my opinion, Turkey offers much more interesting delicacies.
When I was guiding my parents through Istanbul on one of my next trips, they also wanted to taste kumpir, just like everyone who saw it for the first time. In the end, however, they agreed that it is not a very interesting dish. However, if you like mashed potatoes and unconventional combinations, kumpir can be an interesting choice for you.
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Accommodation in Istanbul
I wholeheartedly endorse the Mest Hotel located directly in the heart of Istanbul. The hotel is elegantly renovated, the breakfasts are incredible and the views are spectacular. I last stayed here in the fall of 2022 and will definitely be back again.
