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Istanbul (Turkey)
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Fish & Seafood
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
550kcal
35gProtein
65gCarbs
18gFat
4gFibre
400 gServing
* Per serving · 400 g. May vary.
Allergens
🌾 Gluten
🐟 Fish
Mackerel Sandwich
How to order / say it
Say it
Balık Ekmek — [bah-LUHK ek-MEK]
Order
Can I have a mackerel sandwich, please?
Locally
Balık ekmek alabilir miyim, lütfen?
Say locally
Sandwich filled with grilled mackerel, often served with vegetables
Why try it?
Balık Ekmek is emblematic of Istanbul's vibrant street food scene. Eating one from a vendor by the Bosphorus captures the city's maritime spirit and rich tradition of fish consumption, connecting visitors with everyday local life.
How it tastes
Juicy and slightly oily, the mackerel offers a robust taste of the sea that's balanced by a squeeze of lemon and the crisp freshness of onions and greens in the sandwich. The bread adds a satisfying chewiness.
Origin & History — first documented: 1950
The tradition of balık ekmek emerged from the fishing culture in Istanbul. Street vendors began selling them to make use of abundant local fish. In the 20th century, it became a popular and affordable Istanbul street food ubiquitous at various city spots by the water.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 🐟 2 fillets mackerel
- 🌾 2 loaves bread
- 🍋 1 lemon
- 🧄 1 large onion
- 🥕 100 g lettuce
- 🫒 2 tbsp olive oil
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🧂 1/2 tsp black pepper
Method
- 1 Season mackerel fillets with salt and black pepper, then grill until cooked through.
- 2 Slice bread loaves and lightly toast if desired.
- 3 Assemble the sandwich with grilled mackerel, thinly sliced onions, and lettuce.
- 4 Squeeze lemon juice over fillings for extra flavor before serving.
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