Recipe Catalog

Recipe by Maxim Grachev, chef of the Blau cafe.

Balık-ekmek is an iconic street food dish in Turkey, especially popular in Istanbul along the shores of the Golden Horn. Translated from Turkish, it means 'fish in bread,' which accurately reflects its essence. Fresh mackerel fried to a golden color is paired with a crispy baguette, aromatic onions, and ripe tomatoes. Lightly drizzled with olive oil, this dish has a rich taste of the sea, refreshing and slightly spicy due to the spices. Historically, balık-ekmek originated from fishermen who prepared it right on their boats, treating passersby to freshly cooked fish. Today it is not only a hearty snack but also a gastronomic attraction that allows one to feel the spirit of Turkish cuisine.

The recipe is taken from the book "Encyclopedia of Bread. 80 Bread and Baking Recipes" by Eric Kaiser, published by Bombora.