Review of Turkuaz Kitchen: Comforting Recipes for Delicious Sweet & Savoury Bakes

Betül Tunç, the creative force behind Turkuaz Kitchen, brings her passion for baking to the forefront in her debut cookbook, Turkuaz Kitchen: Comforting Recipes for Delicious Sweet & Savoury Bakes. This collection of 85 recipes draws inspiration from traditional Turkish cuisine and Betül's personal baking journey, offering readers a diverse array of dough-based delights.

First Impressions:

The cookbook is beautifully designed, featuring vibrant photography that showcases the allure of each dish. The layout is clean and user-friendly, with recipes categorized into sections such as Basic Doughs, Enriched Doughs, Quick Breads and Short Doughs, Unleavened Doughs, and Doughs from Turkey. Betül's warm and engaging writing style, enriched with personal anecdotes, makes the book both informative and inviting.

What I Loved:

• Authentic Turkish Recipes: The book offers a treasure trove of traditional Turkish recipes, allowing readers to explore the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.
• Comprehensive Dough Techniques: Betül provides detailed instructions on various dough preparations, making complex baking techniques accessible to home bakers.
• Personal Stories: The inclusion of Betül's personal narratives adds depth and context to the recipes, creating a connection between the reader and the author.
• Versatility: With a mix of sweet and savory options, the cookbook caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions.

Recipes I Tried and Loved:

1. Pide (Turkish Flatbread): Soft, flavorful, and a perfect canvas for various toppings.
2. Savory Cheese Börek: Crisp, flaky, and filled with a delightful cheese mixture, this was a standout savory treat.
3. Baklava Rolls: A sweet indulgence with perfectly layered phyllo and a honey-walnut filling.
4. Semolina Cake (Revani): Moist, fragrant, and soaked in a lightly sweetened syrup, this cake was a crowd-pleaser.

Add a Creative Touch with Tools:

For success with Turkuaz Kitchen, consider adding these tools to your baking arsenal:

• Rolling Pin: Essential for creating thin, even dough layers for recipes like Baklava Rolls.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying butter or syrup to baked goods.
• Pizza Stone: Ideal for achieving authentic texture in flatbreads like Pide.
• Fine Grater: Great for zesting citrus or grating cheese for savory recipes.

Who Is This Book For?

Turkuaz Kitchen is perfect for bakers and food enthusiasts eager to explore Turkish cuisine. It’s particularly suited for those looking to expand their baking repertoire with unique and flavorful recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this book offers inspiration and guidance for creating unforgettable sweet and savory dishes.

A Few Notes:

While the recipes are accessible, some may require specialty ingredients like rosewater or specific cheeses. However, these are readily available at international grocery stores or online. For more advanced dough techniques, additional practice might be beneficial, but Betül’s clear instructions make even challenging recipes feel doable.

Final Thoughts:

Turkuaz Kitchen by Betül Tunç is a delightful celebration of Turkish baking, offering an array of sweet and savory recipes to satisfy any craving. With its approachable style, stunning visuals, and authentic flavors, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone looking to bring the warmth and richness of Turkish cuisine into their kitchen.