In Turkish cuisine, a bowl of hot, comforting soup is far more than just an appetizer. It’s a foundational part of the dining experience, a symbol of warmth and hospitality, and a perfect way to prepare your palate for the delicious feast to come. For centuries, Turkish people have started their days, and their meals, with a nourishing bowl of çorba (soup). Here at Mama Fatma, we bring this rich tradition to our tables in Mississauga and London, sharing a taste of home with our community in Toronto, Ontario.

So, if you’ve never started your meal the Turkish way, get ready to discover a world of flavor. We’re here to guide you through the wonderful world of Turkish soups and explain why they are an essential part of the dining experience.

Types Of Soups Served Before Main Dishes

Turkish soups are incredibly diverse, with a variety of textures and flavors to suit every palate. They can be light and brothy or thick and creamy, but they always provide a satisfying start to a meal.

One of the most classic and universally loved options is a turkish lentil soup. This isn’t just any lentil soup; it’s a smooth, velvety puree of red lentils, often seasoned with a simple yet powerful blend of paprika, mint, and a touch of cumin. It’s simple, humble, and utterly delicious. This lentil soup in turkish is often served with a wedge of lemon on the side, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice completely transforms the flavor, adding a zesty brightness that is a perfect contrast to the earthy lentils.

Another popular choice is Ezogelin soup. This soup has a beautiful story behind its name, which means “Ezo the bride.” Legend says it was created by a heartbroken bride to win back her mother-in-law’s affection. This hearty soup is a delicious combination of red lentils, bulgur, and rice, creating a more substantial texture. It’s often seasoned with a rich tomato paste and a spicy pepper paste, giving it a distinctive kick that sets it apart from a regular turkish lentil soup.

Beyond the lentils, you might encounter other traditional soups like Tavuk Suyu Çorbası (Chicken Broth Soup) with small pieces of chicken and noodles, a perfect comfort food when you’re feeling under the weather. These soups are designed to warm you from the inside out and get your taste buds ready for the meal ahead.

Craving a bowl of warmth? Come and experience the comfort of our traditional soups. We promise they are the perfect way to begin your Turkish culinary journey.

Why Soup Is A Staple In Turkish Dining

In Turkish culture, the soup course is a non-negotiable part of the dining ritual for several reasons. It’s an act of hospitality, a sign of a welcoming home and a generous host. A warm bowl of soup instantly makes a guest feel cared for and appreciated.

More than just hospitality, soups are seen as a healthy and nourishing start to any meal. A simple lentil turkish soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a great way to fill up on wholesome ingredients before you even touch the main dishes. Many soups, like the ones made with lentils, are also believed to aid digestion, acting as a gentle preparation for a heavier meal.

In Turkey, a bowl of soup is also a common breakfast item. It’s not unusual to see locals starting their day with a steaming bowl of işkembe çorbası (tripe soup) or a hearty red lentil soup. This tradition highlights the importance of soup as a standalone meal, a source of energy and nourishment that can be enjoyed any time of day. The presence of soup on a restaurant’s menu, especially a full turkish soup selection, is a sign of authenticity and quality.

Taste the tradition for yourself! Stop by our Mississauga or London location and let us serve you a bowl of soup made with authentic recipes passed down through generations.

Popular Lentil And Yogurt Soups

Let’s take a closer look at two of the most beloved categories of Turkish soups: those made with lentils and those made with yogurt.

Lentil Soups:

  • Turkish Lentil Soup: This is the ultimate classic. Our version of this turkish red lentil soup is prepared with a rich vegetable stock, puréed until perfectly smooth, and then garnished with a drizzle of spicy, melted butter infused with paprika and dried mint. This last touch, the nane yağı (mint oil), is what makes it truly special.

  •  Ezogelin Soup (Spicy Lentil Soup): This is the soup for those who like a little more texture and a bit of heat. The addition of rice and bulgur makes it heartier than its cousin, and the spicy pepper paste gives it a pleasant warmth. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that feels like a meal in itself.

Yogurt Soups:

  •  Highland Soup (Yayla Soup): This is a creamy, tangy yogurt soup that is both refreshing and warming. Made with yogurt, rice, and sometimes chickpeas, it is seasoned with dried mint and a drizzle of hot butter. The key to a great Yayla soup is a perfectly tempered yogurt base, which our chefs masterfully prepare to ensure a smooth, velvety texture without any curdling. It’s a perfect contrast to a rich main dish.

  • Toyga Soup: A similar but slightly different yogurt soup, this one often includes grains like wheat or barley. It’s a nourishing and healthy soup that is both delicious and incredibly satisfying.

These soups are more than just recipes; they are part of the very fabric of Turkish daily life and a testament to the country’s rich culinary history.

Can’t decide? Let our friendly staff help you choose the perfect soup to pair with your meal. We’re here to make your experience unforgettable.

Seasonal Soups To Try At Mama Fatma

Our menu at Mama Fatma is a reflection of Turkey’s diverse culinary landscape, and that includes our soup selection. While we always have our staples, we love to highlight seasonal options that bring new and exciting flavors to your table.

During the cooler months here in Toronto, Ontario, you’ll find us serving rich, hearty soups that warm you from the inside out. In the summer, we might offer lighter, more refreshing options like a cold cucumber and yogurt soup. Our goal is to make sure every bowl of soup we serve is made with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, prepared with the same love and care as if we were cooking for our own families.

Don’t just read about it, taste it! Find the perfect bowl to warm you up this season. Check our menu or ask our staff about our current seasonal soup specials.

How Soup Completes A Meal

A great meal is a symphony, with each course playing its part to create a perfect harmony. The soup course is the overture, the gentle introduction that sets the stage for the main event. It warms the body, awakens the palate, and prepares you for the rich, vibrant flavors of the Turkish main dishes to come.

Starting a meal with a turkish vegetable soup or a hearty lentil soup also makes you feel full and satisfied, encouraging you to eat mindfully and appreciate every bite. It’s a simple tradition that adds so much to the overall dining experience, turning a simple meal into a memorable feast.

So, next time you visit us, don’t skip the soup. It’s the first step on a delicious journey. Come to Mama Fatma in Mississauga or London, and let us serve you a bowl of our finest soup, prepared with love and tradition. It’s a small act of hospitality that we believe makes all the difference.

Ready to experience the perfect Turkish meal? Book your table at Mama Fatma today and let the flavors of our soups transport you to a new world.