Join us as we recount our delightful cooking class in Istanbul, where we learned to prepare traditional Kurdish dishes under the guidance of our host Nuran. Discover the process, ingredients, and the warm hospitality that made this experience unforgettable.
When we planned our trip to Istanbul, Turkey, we knew we wanted to immerse ourselves in the local culture through food. After some deliberation on what type of cuisine to explore—be it desserts, appetizers, or main dishes—we decided to take a cooking class. Our goal was to learn how to cook traditional Kurdish food in a home setting, which we discovered is a popular option in Istanbul.
To find a suitable cooking class, we turned to the internet. A simple search for "Turkish cooking class in Istanbul" yielded numerous options. We had previously enjoyed cooking classes in other cities, such as a margarita pizza class in Naples and a ramen class in Kyoto. This time, we were particularly interested in a home-based experience.
After browsing various websites, we came across a listing on Viator that caught our attention. The class had a perfect 5.0 rating from numerous reviewers, and the description resonated with us. We also considered the price, ensuring it fit our budget, especially since we were traveling as a group.
On our second day in Istanbul, we arrived at the cooking class and were warmly welcomed by our host, Nuran. She greeted us with Turkish tea and a biscuit while we waited for the other participants to arrive. Soon, we were joined by Beth and her mother Jane from the United Kingdom.
Nuran began by introducing us to the ingredients we would be using. She explained that the eggplants were locally grown and shared her preference for using them only in the summer and spring. We learned how to prepare the eggplants by slicing them to create pockets for stuffing with meat. Nuran also introduced us to other vegetables, including zucchini, which she referred to as "kabat."
As we chopped and prepared the ingredients, Nuran shared stories about her family life. She mentioned that her home often hosts many guests, including her sons' friends and relatives, creating a lively atmosphere.
Throughout the class, Nuran guided us through various cooking techniques. We seasoned the meat with spices like black pepper, oregano, and cumin, emphasizing the importance of cooking by feel rather than precise measurements. This approach to cooking, she explained, is common in Turkish cuisine, where experience often trumps exactness.
As we continued to prepare the dishes, we learned about a Kurdish dish called "katl," which involves stuffing vegetables. Nuran explained that her family hails from near the border of Iraq and Syria, and she shared insights into Kurdish culinary traditions. We also prepared a soup, which Nuran described as a sour soup, and discussed the differences between various types of rice and pasta used in Kurdish cooking.
During the class, we had the pleasure of meeting Nuran's sons, Ozan and Bav, as well as Ozan's American wife, Daisy. They joined us at the table, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere. As we cooked, we shared stories and laughter, making the experience feel like a family gathering rather than a formal class.
Once the dishes were prepared, we gathered around the table to enjoy our creations. The meal was a delightful culmination of our efforts, and we savored every bite. Nuran's hospitality shone through as she ensured everyone had enough to eat and encouraged us to try different dishes.
After our meal, Bav shared information about their website, localbond.com, which offers a variety of activities in Istanbul, including cooking classes, networking events, and cultural experiences like Turkish tea and music. This family-run business provides a unique way to engage with the local culture.
Our cooking class with Nuran and her family was a highlight of our trip to Istanbul. We not only learned how to prepare traditional Kurdish dishes but also experienced the warmth of Turkish hospitality. We left with full bellies and happy hearts, grateful for the connections we made and the delicious food we enjoyed.
If you're planning a visit to Istanbul, consider taking a cooking class to immerse yourself in the local culture. Check out Nuran's classes on Viator and explore the offerings at localbond.com for a memorable culinary adventure.
