Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Seyhan, Turkey
1. Adana Kebabı
A spicy grilled kebab made with ground beef and lamb, traditionally served in a flatbread. Try it at Köşkeçeoğlu Kebap Salonu.
- Authenticity: One of the oldest kebab houses in Adana.
- Spiciness Level: Adjustable to your preference with various levels of heat.
- Typical Side Dishes: Served with salad, onions, and garlic sauce.
2. İmamoğlu Kofte
Hand-made meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, cooked slowly to perfection. You can find them at Ali Usta İmamoğlu Köfteçisi.
- Cooking Method: Cooked in a traditional cast iron pot.
- Taste: Mildly spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
- Presentation: Served in a clay pot on a bed of rice.
3. Seftali Dolma
Stuffed vine leaves filled with rice, herbs, and ground meat. Visit Seyhan Bazar to try this traditional dish.
- Ingredients: A mix of minced beef, rice, pine nuts, currants, and various spices.
- Cultural Significance: Dating back to Ottoman Empire cuisine.
- Portion Size: Generous servings perfect for sharing.
4. Seyhan Tavuk Adına
Tender roasted chicken cooked over an open flame. Don't miss this local favorite at Şeyh Musa Paşa Kebapçısı.
- Cooking Technique: Spit-roasted over an open flame.
- Flavor Profile: Marinated with garlic, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Pairing: Served with rice or freshly baked bread.
5. Gözleme
Thin, unleavened flatbread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, and minced meat. Try it at Seyhan Bazaar.
- Traditional Preparation: Hand-made from scratch.
- Versatility: Fillings can be customized to your taste.
- Texture: Crispy exterior with a soft, doughy interior.
6. Adana Böreği
A layered pastry filled with minced beef and spices. You can find it at various bakeries in Seyhan.
- Layering Technique: Thin layers of filo pastry filled with the meat mixture.
- Spiciness Level: Adjustable to your preference.
- Serving Style: Cut into rectangular pieces for sharing.
7. Kahve Fıstıkı
A traditional Turkish coffee served with roasted pistachios. Savor this delight at a local café in Seyhan.
- Preparation Method: Brewed in a special pot called cezve.
- Strength: Strong and rich, with a layer of foam on top.
- Taste Enhancer: Served with sugar cubes for your sweetness preference.
8. Yastık Dolma
Stuffed cabbage leaves in a tangy tomato sauce. Visit Karaçamili Yastık Dolması for an authentic experience.
- Ingredients: Made with minced meat, rice, and a variety of spices.
- Cooking Technique: Stewed slowly until tender.
- Portion Size: Large servings that satisfy your appetite.
9. Karagöz Salatası
A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, and a tangy yogurt dressing. Try it at local restaurants in Seyhan.
- Freshness: Made with fresh, locally-grown produce.
- Taste: A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Nutritional Value: Fresh vegetables and yogurt make it a healthy choice.
10. Adana Tatlısı
A sweet dessert made with semolina, sugar syrup, and chopped nuts. Enjoy this local treat at a bakery in Seyhan.
- Traditional Preparation: Made by hand using old family recipes.
- Texture: Moist and crumbly with a sweet, sticky syrup coating.
- Flavor Profile: A delightful mix of sweetness from sugar syrup and the nuttiness from chopped nuts.
11. Kıymalı Pide
A Turkish-style pizza topped with minced meat, onions, and cheese. Find it at local pizelerias in Seyhan.
- Dough: Thin, elastic, and slightly chewy.
- Toppings: Generous servings of minced meat and cheese.
- Spiciness Level: Adjustable to your preference with various levels of heat.
12. Kumpir
A baked potato stuffed with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, corn, and salami. Try it at street vendors in Seyhan.
- Preparation Method: Baked until tender.
- Customization: Various toppings and sauces to choose from.
- Portion Size: Generous servings, perfect for a filling meal.
13. Mercimek Köftesi
Meatless meatballs made from bulgur, vegetables, and herbs. You can find them at local restaurants in Seyhan.
- Ingredients: Made with bulgur, onions, carrots, green peas, and various spices.
- Health Benefits: A vegan-friendly option high in fiber and protein.
- Taste: Delicious when served with yogurt or tomato sauce.
14. Seyhan Ayran
A refreshing yogurt drink made with water and salt. Try this local beverage at a café or restaurant in Seyhan.
- Preparation Method: Made by blending yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt.
- Refreshing Quality: Perfect for cooling down during hot summer days.
- Pairing: Ideal with spicy dishes to help balance the heat.
15. Adana Şekerleme
Thin, crispy waffles coated in a sweet syrup. Satisfy your sweet tooth at local bakeries in Seyhan.
- Preparation Method: Cooked on a hot iron griddle.
- Texture: Crunchy exterior with a soft, doughy interior.
- Sweetness Level: Coated in a sweet syrup for an irresistible flavor.