Halka tatlısı is a Turkish street dessert in the shape of a fried, ridged ring soaked in sugar syrup. It belongs to the most widespread and affordable sweets in the streets of Istanbul. The basis of the dish is a specific choux pastry extruded directly into hot oil. The hot fried pieces are immediately tossed into cold syrup. Thanks to the thermal shock, the surface remains crispy, but the porous inside soaks up the liquid like a sponge. Deep grooves also help trap even more sweet juice.
Kokoreç is a traditional Turkish dish made from lamb or mutton intestines, which are wrapped around a metal skewer and slowly grilled over charcoal. Once cooked, the meat is chopped into small pieces, seasoned with spices, and typically served in a fresh baguette. There is also a spicy variant called "Atom kokoreç." Kokoreç is an example of traditional Turkish street food, especially popular in Istanbul.
Kumpir is a popular Turkish street food in the form of a stuffed baked potato. The base is a large potato baked until crispy, whose insides are mixed with butter and salt after being slit open. This creates a fluffy mashed potato. The potato is then filled with a wide variety of ingredients. Kumpir has its counterparts in other cuisines, such as the British jacket potatoes.
Balık ekmek is a popular Turkish street food dish. It consists of grilled fish placed inside half a loaf of bread. This specialty belongs inseparably to Istanbul and the shores of the Bosphorus. The main ingredient is fatty mackerel and soft bread. The taste is complemented by fresh onion, lettuce, and lemon juice. Preparation takes place on grates right on the street before the eyes of customers.
