Tantuni is a dish made of finely chopped beef or chicken, sautéed in cottonseed oil with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and a mix of spices. It is served in lavaş bread or Turkish baguette.
This specialty originates from the city of Mersin but has gradually spread to other parts of Turkey, particularly Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Tantuni is popular not only as street food but also as a full main course in restaurants.
Tantuni: Spicy Meat in Cottonseed Oil
Typical Ingredients of Tantuni
The main ingredient of tantuni is finely chopped meat. Most commonly, beef or veal is used, with chicken being a less common alternative. Other important ingredients include fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Preparation Method and Frying in Special Oil
Tantuni is prepared on a special large metal pan with a slightly concave shape. The pan is called “tantuni tavası,” and its specific design allows for deep and even frying of the meat.
The meat is first briefly boiled in water and then quickly fried with spices in hot oil. The typical oil used is cottonseed oil (“pamuk yağı”). This gives the meat its specific texture, allowing it to sear quickly while maintaining its juiciness. Additionally, cottonseed oil imparts an authentic flavor typical of the Mersin region.
The Type of Bread Used for Tantuni
The finished tantuni is served wrapped in bread with vegetables and fresh parsley. The most common bread used is thin lavaş bread or Turkish bread similar to a baguette (somun ekmek). Before serving, the bread is lightly pressed onto the pan to absorb the juices and flavor of the meat and spices. As a side, tantuni is typically served with very spicy peppers and a slice of lemon. The spiciness can be balanced by drinking ayran, which pairs perfectly with the dish.
Today, tantuni is considered one of the typical dishes of Turkish cuisine.
I first tried tantuni in the fall of 2022, and since then, I can’t get enough of it. Meat cooked in cottonseed oil tastes unique and intriguing. The whole mix is perfectly spiced. I enjoy tantuni at the Tantunihan bistro in the center of Istanbul (see “Where to Eat in Istanbul“). One portion, as shown in the photos here, cost 50 TRY (2.80 EUR).
Bon appétit!
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