Simit, gevrek and kumru are staple foods of Turkish culture. Simit is a ring-shaped pastry covered with sesame seeds and is eaten especially at breakfast or bought from street vendors. Gevrek, although similar in name, is unique to Izmir and has a harder and crispier texture than bagels. Kumru, on the other hand, is a long bread sandwich with various ingredients, popular in and around Izmir. These three foods are so deeply rooted in Turkish culture that they have their own unique versions in many different regions and cities in Türkiye.

BISCUIT: THE PETAL OF ANATOLIA

Simit is a popular food throughout Türkiye, with historical roots dating back to the Ottoman period. Just as it is unthinkable to imagine a ferry ride in Istanbul without bagel sellers, bagel is not only a food, but also a cultural symbol.

GEVREK THE PRIDE OF IZMIR

Gevrek is very popular in and around Izmir. However, this popularity sometimes leads to a confusion between gevrek and simit. In Izmir, simit is often referred to as gevrek, but they are different in texture. Gevrek has a crunchier texture than simit and is widely consumed, especially for breakfast.

SANDWICH MORE THAN A SANDWICH

Kumru is a type of sandwich that is very popular in and around Izmir. However, this long bread can turn into a work of art with the ingredients it is filled with. It is usually prepared with meat products such as sausage, pastrami, salami or cheese and vegetables.

FROM ITS ROOTS TO TODAY

Apart from their historical and cultural contexts, these three foods continue to change and evolve in Türkiye today. For example, while simit now comes in various fruit or chocolate versions, kumru continues to be popular in vegan or health food trends.