A Culinary Journey with Mama Fatma

Turkey’s rich culinary heritage is deeply intertwined with its dairy tradition. From the tangy delight of yogurt to the savory complexity of its cheeses, Turkish dairy products offer a unique taste of the country’s culture and geography. Let’s embark on a journey through this world, discovering the many ways these products enhance Turkish cuisine and how you can enjoy them at home, or better yet, at Mama Fatma’s three locations across Canada (Vaughan, Mississauga, and London)!

Popular Turkish Cheeses and Their Uses

Turkish cheeses are a testament to the country’s diverse geography and culinary history. Here are a few standouts:

  • White Cheese (Beyaz Peynir): This brined cheese, similar to feta, is a staple at breakfast and in salads. Its salty, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with olives and fresh vegetables. Imagine a warm summer morning in Toronto, with a slice of white cheese, a juicy tomato, and a sprinkle of oregano โ€“ pure bliss! White cheese is also used in bรถrek and gรถzleme. Try it in our delicious Spinach and Feta Borek at Mama Fatma Restaurant!
  • Kashar Cheese (KaลŸar Peyniri): A semi-hard cheese, kashar is Turkey’s most popular cheese. Its mild, nutty flavor makes it ideal for melting in sandwiches (think of a Turkish grilled cheese, or “tost”), bรถrek, and pide. Kashar cheese is also used in soups and casseroles, adding a creamy, melty texture. Our Kasharli Pide is a customer favorite โ€“ come and taste it for yourself!
  • Tulum Cheese (Tulum Peyniri): This aged cheese, often made from goat’s milk, has a strong, pungent flavor. It’s typically enjoyed on its own or with walnuts and honey. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a glass of raki, an anise-flavored spirit. Tulum cheese is also used in salads andย  cold appetizers (meze). We use only the finest Tulum Cheese in our special meze platter.
  • String Cheese (Dil Peyniri): This mild, stringy cheese is a favorite among kids and adults alike. It’s often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. String cheese is also used in bรถrek and pide, adding a stretchy, cheesy element. Perfect for a light snack โ€“ ask your server for String Cheese today!

The Role of Yogurt in Turkish Cuisine

Yogurt is arguably the most important dairy product in Turkey. It’s not just a breakfast food; it’s a key ingredient in countless dishes:

  • Haydari: A creamy yogurt dip with garlic and herbs, haydari is a refreshing appetizer served with bread or vegetables. It’s the perfect start to a meal at Mama Fatma, shared with friends and family. Haydari is also used as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Our homemade Haydari is a must-try โ€“ you won’t find it anywhere else!
  • Cacik: A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumber, mint, and garlic, cacik is a summer staple, offering a cooling respite from the heat. Cacik is often served as a side dish with grilled meats and vegetables. Cool down with a bowl of Cacik on a hot day โ€“ it’s incredibly refreshing!
  • Ayran: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and salt, ayran is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and kebabs. Ayran is also a popular drink during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month. Ask for Ayran to complete your Turkish meal โ€“ it’s the perfect thirst quencher!
  • Yogurtlu Kebap: Many kebab dishes are served with a generous dollop of yogurt, adding a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory meat. Yogurt is also used to marinate meats, tenderizing them and adding flavor. Our Iskender Kebab is a customer favorite, served with creamy yogurt and flavorful tomato sauce.

Traditional Turkish Butter and Its Flavor

Traditional Turkish butter, often made from sheep’s milk, has a rich, creamy flavor that sets it apart from mass-produced butters. It’s used in a variety of dishes, from pastries like baklava to savory dishes like pilaf. The distinct taste of this butter adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. Turkish butter is also used in breads, cakes, and cookies. We use only the finest Turkish butter in all our dishes โ€“ you can taste the difference!

How Turkish Dairy Differs from Other Cultures

While many cultures use dairy products, the way they’re used in Turkish cuisine is unique:

  • Emphasis on Freshness: Turkish cuisine emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. Turkish dairy products are typically consumed fresh, ensuring maximum flavor and nutritional value. This emphasis on freshness is reflected in the way Turkish people shop for dairy products, often visiting local farmers markets or dairies. We source our dairy products locally whenever possible, ensuring the highest quality and freshness.
  • Variety of Products: From a wide array of cheeses to various types of yogurt, Turkish dairy products offer a diverse range of flavors and textures. This variety is due to Turkey’s diverse geography and climate, which support a wide range of dairy animals and production methods. Explore the diverse world of Turkish dairy with our tasting platter โ€“ a perfect way to sample a variety of flavors.
  • Cultural Significance: Dairy products hold a special place in Turkish culture, often associated with hospitality and celebration. For example, yogurt is often served at weddings and other special occasions. Experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality at Mama Fatma Restaurant, where dairy products are always at the heart of our meals.

Best Ways to Pair Dairy with Turkish Dishes

The possibilities for pairing Turkish dairy products with Turkish dishes are endless. Here are a few ideas:

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring white cheese (beyaz peynir), olives, honey, and fresh bread. Add some clotted cream (kaymak) and honey for a truly indulgent experience. Join us for a delicious Turkish breakfast at Mama Fatma โ€“ a perfect way to start your day!
  • Cold Appetizers (Meze): Enjoy a selection of meze like haydari, cacik, and stuffed grape leaves, all featuring the creamy goodness of yogurt. Serve with warm pita bread for dipping. Our meze platter is perfect for sharing โ€“ a great way to experience a variety of Turkish flavors.
  • Main Courses: Many Turkish main courses, like manti or stuffed eggplant (karnฤฑyarฤฑk), are enhanced by a dollop of yogurt. Try adding a sprinkle of sumac (a tangy spice) for an extra burst of flavor. Our Manti is a must-try โ€“ delicate dumplings served with creamy yogurt and a flavorful sauce.
  • Desserts: Indulge in a sweet treat like rice pudding (sรผtlaรง) or caramelized milk pudding (kazandibi), both creamy delights. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth and aroma. Our Sรผtlaรง is the perfect ending to your meal โ€“ a creamy, sweet treat with a hint of cinnamon.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Regional Specialties

As you delve deeper into Turkish dairy products, you’ll discover regional specialties that add even more depth to this culinary tradition. For instance, the smoky flavor of cecil cheese (รงeรงil peyniri) from the Black Sea region or the unique taste of moldy cheese (kรผflรผ peynir) from Konya. Each region boasts its own unique dairy products and culinary traditions, waiting to be explored. Ask your server about our regional specialties โ€“ we’re always happy to share our knowledge of Turkish cuisine.

A Taste of Turkey at Mama Fatma

Craving an authentic Turkish dairy experience? Look no further than Mama Fatma! Our menu features a wide array of dishes showcasing the versatility of Turkish dairy products, from creamy yogurtlu kebabs to delectable rice pudding (sรผtlaรง). Visit us at one of our three locations in Vaughan, Mississauga, and London, and let us transport your taste buds to the heart of Turkey! Book your table today and experience the authentic taste of Turkey at Mama Fatma Restaurant!

Bringing Turkish Dairy into Your Kitchen

Inspired to try your hand at incorporating Turkish dairy products into your cooking? Many specialty stores in Toronto carry a variety of Turkish cheeses, yogurt, and butter. Start with a simple recipe like haydari or a classic white cheese (beyaz peynir) salad, and gradually explore more complex dishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures, and discover your own favorite ways to use Turkish dairy products. Check out our website for delicious Turkish recipes and cooking tips!

Join the Conversation

What are your favorite Turkish dairy products? Share your thoughts and culinary creations with us on social media using #TurkishDairyLove. We’d love to hear from you! We also encourage you to share your photos and videos of Turkish dairy products dishes, and tag us in your posts. Follow us on social media for exclusive deals, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at Mama Fatma Restaurant!