What İs Kokorec?
What İs Kokorec: A Turkish Delight Made from Lamb Intestines
If you are looking for a unique and delicious dish to try in Turkey, you might want to give kokoreç a chance. Kokoreç is a traditional Turkish dish that is made from lamb or goat intestines wrapped around seasoned offal, such as sweetbreads, hearts, lungs, or kidneys, and grilled over charcoal. It is a popular street food that can be found in many cities and towns across the country, especially at night.
Kokoreç has a long history in Turkish cuisine, dating back to the Byzantine Empire. The word kokoreç comes from the Greek word kokoretsi, which means "wrapped intestines". The dish is also common in other Balkan countries, such as Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia, where it is known by different names and variations.
The preparation of kokoreç is quite meticulous and requires skill and patience. The intestines are turned inside out and carefully washed, then rubbed with salt and sometimes soaked in vinegar or lemon juice and water. The offal is also washed and cut into small pieces, and seasoned with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, chili flakes, and sometimes garlic. The intestines are then wrapped around the offal on a long metal skewer, forming a cylindrical shape. The skewer is placed over a charcoal fire and rotated slowly until the kokoreç is cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Batuhan Kenan korkmaz
Kokoreç can be served in different ways, depending on the region and preference of the customer. Some people like to eat it as it is, with some bread and salad on the side. Others prefer to have it chopped up and stuffed into a bread roll, making a sandwich called ekmek arası kokoreç. The sandwich can be customized with various toppings and sauces, such as tomatoes, onions, parsley, lettuce, mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup, or yogurt.
Kokoreç is a dish that might sound strange or even gross to some people, but it is actually very tasty and satisfying. The intestines have a crunchy texture and a smoky flavor, while the offal is tender and juicy. The spices add a nice kick and aroma to the dish, making it more appetizing and enjoyable. Kokoreç is also rich in protein and iron, which can provide energy and boost the immune system.
If you are feeling adventurous and want to try something new in Turkey, don't miss the opportunity to taste kokoreç. It is a dish that will surprise you with its flavor and texture, and make you appreciate the diversity and creativity of Turkish cuisine.
