Turkish cuisine is a mosaic of rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and deep-rooted traditions. Among its many delights, dips and spreads stand out as flavorful companions to every meal. Whether you’re starting with a meze platter or building a full-course dinner, Turkish dips offer something for every palate. For those in Toronto / Ontario / Canada, Mama Fatma brings these traditional treasures straight to your table, with authentic recipes made from halal ingredients and served with warmth. Let’s explore the world of Turkish dips and spreads you can discover—and fall in love with.
Discover the richness of Turkish dips with one of our signature meze platters at Mama Fatma—perfect for first-timers and seasoned foodies alike!
Hummus: Not Just Middle Eastern
While hummus is often associated with the broader Middle Eastern region, it also holds a special place in Turkish cuisine. Made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is smooth, hearty, and packed with plant-based protein.
In Turkey, hummus may be topped with warm butter, pine nuts, or spicy pastes for an added layer of richness. It’s commonly served with warm flatbread and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
At Mama Fatma, we serve our hummus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika—simple, yet unforgettable. If you’re new to Turkish spread breakfast culture, this is a must-try.
Craving a creamy, dreamy starter? Let our house-made hummus introduce you to the joy of authentic Turkish dips.
Haydari And Cacık Differences
Both haydari and cacık are yogurt-based dips, but they are not the same. Cacık is a refreshing blend of yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and mint—somewhat like tzatziki. It’s often served cold and enjoyed as a side with meat dishes or rice.
Haydari, on the other hand, is thicker, more concentrated, and more robust in flavor. It’s made with strained yogurt, garlic, dill, and sometimes feta or walnuts for a richer experience.
In our Toronto location, we serve both as part of our cold appetizer menu. Kids love the mildness of cacık, while adults appreciate the creamy depth of haydari.
Looking for a refreshing side? Pair your entrée with our chilled cacık or rich haydari dip—it’s the cool way to taste tradition.
Spicy Ezme And How It’s Served
Ezme is a fiery, finely chopped vegetable dip made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and pomegranate molasses. It’s not just a dip but a flavor bomb that can instantly elevate grilled meats and fresh breads.
It pairs beautifully with kebabs or as a vibrant side in your meze spread. Some diners even spoon it over rice or wrap it in flatbread with meat—the options are endless.
At Mama Fatma, ezme is prepared fresh daily with the perfect balance of heat and tang. It’s one of our most popular dips among locals looking for a bit of a kick.
Ready to spice things up? Ask for our ezme with your main course and experience the bold side of Turkish flavor.
Muhammara: Pepper And Walnut Blend
Originally from southeastern Turkey and Syria, muhammara is a bold and savory dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil. It’s earthy, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile.
Spread it on crusty bread, use it as a sandwich base, or even spoon it over grilled vegetables. Muhammara also complements other Turkish dips eggplant varieties, like baba ghanoush.
Our Toronto guests often ask for muhammara by name—a testament to how this regional gem has captured hearts (and taste buds) across cultures.
Try our muhammara as part of a mixed dip platter—it’s a crowd-pleaser with layers of smoky, nutty goodness.
Best Bread Pairings For Each Dip
No Turkish dip is complete without the right bread. Pide (Turkish flatbread) is the go-to option for most spreads, with its soft interior and lightly crispy crust.
Hummus & Muhammara: Pair with warm pide or lavash
Haydari & Cacık: Best with crusty bread or sliced veggies for scooping
Ezme: Enjoy with grilled flatbread to soak up the bold flavors
At Mama Fatma, we bake our own bread fresh daily. It’s served warm and perfect for sharing—just one more reason our dips are irresistible.
Warm bread, cool dips—visit us today and taste the harmony in every bite.
What To Try First At Mama Fatma
New to Turkish cuisine? Start with a mixed meze platter that includes a little bit of everything: hummus, haydari, cacık, ezme, and muhammara. Add a few slices of warm pide and you’ll have a full experience in just one plate.
You can also ask our staff for recommendations based on your spice tolerance and taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer mild and creamy options, there’s a Turkish dip waiting for you at Mama Fatma.
And don’t forget to try our house specialty—Turkish eggplant dip, also known as patlıcan ezmesi. Made from roasted eggplants, olive oil, garlic, and lemon, it’s the perfect smoky complement to any dish.
Turkish dips and spreads are more than appetizers—they’re a cultural expression, a welcoming gesture, and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re building a Turkish spread breakfast, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to something new, these dips deliver satisfaction.
Want to explore the world of Turkish dips right here in Toronto / Ontario / Canada? Visit Mama Fatma for authentic, hand-prepared mezes that will have you dipping, spreading, and smiling all meal long.
From the first bite of hummus to the last scoop of muhammara, Turkish dips are an easy, delicious way to fall in love with this cuisine—one spread at a time.