Join a unique culinary journey that immerses you in the heart of Turkish home hospitality. This 2.5-hour experience invites you to learn the art of preparing authentic Çiğköfte, a beloved traditional dish, alongside a small group of fellow foodies. Discover the rich traditions behind this flavorful delicacy as you engage in cooking and tasting activities that foster connections and create lasting memories. Don’t miss the chance to savor the warmth of Turkish culture and indulge in a memorable home-cooked dinner.

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Key Points

Participants learn to prepare authentic Turkish Çiğköfte in a traditional home setting with knowledgeable hosts.
The 2.5-hour experience focuses on Turkish hospitality and cultural significance of the dish from Southeast Turkey.
Activities include cooking, tasting, and bonding with fellow attendees, leading to lasting friendships and memories.
The intimate experience is priced at $43.62 per person with a limited group size of 8 participants.
Public transportation options are provided for reaching the cozy apartment location in Erenköy, Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This traditional home dinner night offers participants an opportunity to learn and indulge in the distinctive Turkish street food, Çiğköfte.

Priced from $43.62 per person, the 2.5-hour experience has a limited group size of 8. Offered in English and Turkish, the event features a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants can expect to discover the original concept of Çiğköfte, learn to prepare it traditionally, and experience Turkish home hospitality and the cultural significance of the dish from Southeast Turkey.

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Experience Description

Participants can discover the original concept of Çiğköfte, a popular Turkish street food, as they partake in a home cooking session where they learn to prepare the dish in the traditional manner. They will experience Turkish home hospitality and the cultural significance of the dish from Southeast Turkey. Throughout the evening, you will engage in cooking, tasting, and bonding with hosts and fellow attendees.

| Experience | Description |

|————|————-|

| Cooking Session | Learn the authentic recipe and preparation of Çiğköfte |

| Cultural Immersion | Understand the traditions and significance of the dish |

| Social Interaction | Enjoy a communal dining experience with locals |

Highlights and Learning Outcomes

Guests will learn how to cook Çiğköfte, including the recipe, and understand the cultural context and tradition surrounding this popular Turkish street food.

The highlights and learning outcomes include:

Mastering the art of preparing authentic Çiğköfte
Exploring the cultural significance of the dish from Southeast Turkey
Enjoying a traditional Turkish dinner and bonding with the hosts and fellow participants

Through this immersive experience, you will create lasting friendships and memories while delving into the flavors and traditions of Turkish home cooking.

Participant Testimonials

Several participants have praised the Traditional Home Dinner Night with Çiğköfte experience.

Fadi from the UAE described it as the best of his Istanbul trip, highlighting the wonderful hosts and friendships formed.

Annalena from Germany enjoyed the comfortable and fun evening, emphasizing the unforgettable nature of the cooking and dining experience.

Hana from France appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and delicious food.

Participants consistently noted the unique culture, the opportunity to learn traditional recipes, and the enjoyable social aspect of cooking and dining with locals in a home setting.

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Directions and Meeting Point

To reach the private home for the Traditional Home Dinner Night with Çiğköfte, public transportation is recommended due to Istanbul’s traffic conditions.

Participants can:

Take the Marmaray from Sirkeci to Erenköy station, then walk 5-10 minutes to the meeting point.
Travel via Metro to Yenikapı, then transfer to the Marmaray to Erenköy station, followed by a 5-10 minute walk.

Upon arrival at the building, press 45, go to A Blok, and take the elevator to the 15th floor, where the meeting point is located.

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Discover the Authentic ÇiğKöfte

Upon arriving at the cozy 15th-floor apartment, participants are welcomed by their gracious hosts and immersed in the authentic flavors and traditions of Çiğköfte.

They’ll learn how this raw meat-based dish originated in Southeast Turkey as a portable, protein-rich snack for rural workers.

Under the guidance of the hosts, participants discover the meticulous process of mixing the bulgur, spices, and vegetables by hand to create the signature texture and taste.

Participants discover the meticulous process of mixing bulgur, spices, and vegetables by hand to craft the authentic Çiğköfte flavor.

As they knead and roll the mixture, the group gains a deeper appreciation for this beloved Turkish street food and its cultural significance.

Taking in Turkish Home Hospitality

As participants settle into the cozy 15th-floor apartment, they’re immersed in the warm hospitality of their Turkish hosts.

The evening unfolds with:

Engaging conversations about the cultural significance of Çiğköfte and its origins in Southeast Turkey.
Hands-on instructions on the traditional preparation method, where hosts guide participants step-by-step.
A shared traditional Turkish dinner, fostering connections and a deeper appreciation for the culinary traditions.

The experience offers a rare glimpse into Turkish home life, allowing participants to forge lasting friendships and create cherished memories of their Istanbul visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cooking Done in a Professional Kitchen or a Home?

The cooking is done in a home kitchen. The experience involves participating in a home cooking session where participants learn to prepare the traditional Turkish dish of çiğköfte with the hosts.

Do I Need to Bring Any Cooking Equipment?

No, participants do not need to bring any cooking equipment. The cooking session takes place in the hosts’ home kitchen, and all necessary tools and ingredients will be provided for the group to learn and prepare the traditional dish together.

How Much of the Meal Is Prepared in Advance by the Hosts?

The hosts prepare the majority of the meal in advance, but participants actively participate in making the traditional Turkish dish of Çiğköfte during the hands-on cooking session. The hosts guide the participants through the entire preparation process.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

Yes, dietary restrictions can often be accommodated. Participants should notify the hosts of any special dietary needs when booking the experience, and the hosts will do their best to provide suitable alternatives.

What Is the Dress Code for the Event?

The event has a casual, relaxed dress code. Participants can wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as the focus is on the cooking and dining experience rather than formal attire.

The Sum Up

Discover the secrets of authentic Turkish cuisine by joining the "Traditional Home Dinner Night with Çiğköfte – Learn and Eat" experience. You’ll learn to prepare the beloved dish, immerse in Turkish hospitality, and savor a memorable dinner with fellow foodies. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the rich traditions and flavors of Turkey.