Tursu (written turşu in Turkish and pronounced tourchou ) is much more than a simple pickle. These fermented vegetables, with rich and complex flavors, are a pillar of Turkish gastronomy. Whether as a side dish, in a salad, or simply as a snack, turşu seduces the taste buds and tells an ancestral story. Let's discover together its origins, its benefits, how to prepare it, and where to buy it.
What is Tursu?
The word "tursu" refers to fermented or pickled vegetables, a preservation technique that dates back to Ottoman times. In Turkey, almost any vegetable can be made into tursu: pickles, carrots, cabbage, peppers, green tomatoes, and even fruits like green plums.
Tursu is much more than a condiment. It occupies an important place on the Turkish table, especially in winter, where its tangy and salty flavors balance out rich dishes like soups and meats.
The History and Culture of Tursu
The origins of tursu date back centuries, when Turkish communities used fermentation to preserve vegetable crops. Today, it is ubiquitous in Turkish markets, where colorful stalls of jars attract passersby.
Tursu is also associated with family traditions. Many households in Turkey prepare their own jars as winter approaches, a ritual that is passed down from generation to generation.
Health Benefits of Tursu
In addition to being delicious, tursu is good for your health:
- Rich in probiotics : Thanks to the fermentation process, it promotes a balanced intestinal flora.
- Boosts the immune system : The probiotics and vitamins in fermented vegetables contribute to better overall health.
- Aids digestion : Natural acidity stimulates the digestive system.
- Low in calories : This is a healthy option for those who want to watch their diet.
The Different Varieties of Tursu
Here are some popular types of tursu:
- Salatalık Turşusu (pickles): A great classic, perfect for sandwiches and mezze.
- Biber Turşusu (peppers): Often spicy, they add character to dishes.
- Lahana Turşusu (cabbage): Ideal to accompany dishes in sauce.
- Domates Yeşil Turşusu (green tomatoes): A unique flavor to discover.
- Vegetable Mix : A colorful and tasty mix.
Recipe: Prepare Homemade Tursu
Want to make your own tursu? Here is a simple and traditional recipe.
Ingredients :
- 1 kg of vegetables (pickles, carrots, peppers, etc.)
- 1 L of water
- 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
- 250 ml of white vinegar
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Spices (mustard seeds, bay leaves, etc.)
Steps:
- Wash the vegetables carefully and cut them if necessary.
- Mix water and salt until dissolved.
- Place the vegetables in a sterilized jar, alternating with the spices and garlic.
- Pour in the vinegar and salted water until the vegetables are covered.
- Seal tightly and let ferment at room temperature for 10 to 15 days.
The tursu is ready when the vegetables have a nice color and a slightly crunchy texture!
How to Taste Tursu?
Turşu can be consumed in many ways:
- As an accompaniment : Serve it with kebabs, soups like tarhana, or stews.
- In a salad : Add tursu for a touch of acidity and crunch.
- As a snack : Enjoy it straight away for a healthy snack.
Where to buy Tursu?
If you prefer to buy ready-to-eat tursu, there are several options available to you:
- In local Turkish grocery stores : You will find a wide variety of tursu, prepared according to traditional recipes.
- At local markets : Turkish markets are famous for their colorful stalls of jars of tursu.
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At Istanbul Market: Order online!
We offer a selection of authentic tursu, made according to traditions. Order now on istanbul-market.com and receive your pickles directly at home.
Conclusion
Tursu is more than just a food: it is a true culinary experience, a journey into the heart of Turkish flavors and a tradition to be preserved. Whether you choose to prepare it yourself or order it from Istanbul Market , tursu will bring a unique touch to your table.
So, ready to enjoy the magic of Turkish pickles? Try our recipe or explore our products today!