Turkish cuisine overflows with vegetables, herbs and olive oil—perfect fuel while you sail Turkey. Because cooks lean into what’s in season, flavours are bright and produce-forward, especially along the Mediterranean where many of our Turkey sailing tours run. Below are seven beloved classics—fully plant-based or easily made so—that showcase the best of turkish vegan dishes you’ll enjoy on board.
Mücver (Zucchini Fritters)
Grated courgette is mixed with dill, spring onion and a pinch of spice, then pan-fried in olive oil until crisp at the edges and tender inside. Many home cooks add egg, but our galley often does an egg-free version that holds beautifully—great warm or at room temperature.
İmambayıldı (Olive-Oil Braised Aubergine)
Eggplants are halved, mounded with a long-cooked mix of onion, tomato and garlic, and then simmered slowly in olive oil until meltingly soft. The result is silky, sweet and aromatic—legend has it the name means “the imam swooned.”
Mercimek Köftesi (Red Lentil & Bulgur “Meatballs”)
Red lentils simmered to a mash meet fine bulgur, tomato and pepper pastes, herbs and spices, then are shaped into finger-sized patties. Tuck them into crunchy lettuce leaves and finish with a splash of lemon—an easy, plant-based protein boost.
Kısır (Herbed Bulgur Salad)
Think of this as Türkiye’s take on tabbouleh: fine bulgur tossed with tomato paste, parsley, mint, cucumber, tomatoes and spring onion, dressed with olive oil, lemon and often a splash of pomegranate molasses. Light, zesty and perfect between swims.
Yaprak Sarma (Stuffed Vine Leaves)
Tender vine leaves rolled around a fragrant mix of rice, onions, pine nuts and currants, scented with cinnamon and allspice. Served at room temperature with lemon wedges—addictive little parcels you’ll keep reaching for.
Hummus
This regional favourite shows up at nearly every meal on deck—chickpeas whipped with tahini, lemon and garlic, then finished with a gloss of olive oil. We often top it with paprika or chopped herbs and serve it alongside warm bread and crunchy veg.
Sigara Böreği (Crispy Cheese & Herb Rolls) – Vegan Option Available
Cigar-shaped pastries fried to a golden crunch. The traditional filling is white cheese with herbs, but we also make a dairy-free version using herbed mashed potato or seasoned tofu so everyone can tuck in.
Dining While You Sail Turkey
Our chefs plan menus around seasonal produce and guest preferences. If you’re vegan or have dietary needs, just note it when booking—there’s always a generous plant-based spread on our Turkey sailing tours. Come hungry, nap happy, and let these turkish vegan dishes become part of your sea-day ritual.