Turkish breakfast
Traditional breakfast from Van | |
| Alternative names | Kahvaltı |
|---|---|
| Type | Breakfast |
| Place of origin | Turkey |
| Associated cuisine | Turkish cuisine |
| Main ingredients | Eggs (e.g. menemen), cheese, olives, fresh vegetables, bread (e.g. simit), pastries (e.g. börek), spreads (e.g. kaymak), black tea. |
Turkish breakfast, also known as Kahvaltı in Turkish, refers to the traditional breakfast of Turkey, characterized by a wide variety of small dishes served together, typically blending a multitude of flavors, textures, and food categories. The table is adorned with both sweet and savory items, spanning cheeses, olives, vegetables, local breads, eggs, börek, baklava or other sweet pastries, and more, accompanied by hot beverages such as Turkish tea (çay).
A prominent feature of Turkish culinary culture, kahvaltı is considered one of the most elaborate and social breakfast traditions in the world, celebrated for its diversity, abundance, and the act of bringing individuals together, often extending for several hours during weekends and holidays. In the 21st century, Turkish breakfast has also gained widespread global popularity through tourism in Turkey, social media, Turkish diaspora, and international restaurants.