What a wonderful mixture of cooking styles exists within Turkish cuisine. Due to its geographical location nestled between Asia and Europe, Turkish food is a unique and exotic fusion with influences from many countries. Since the days of the powerful Ottoman empire, Turkey has also been at the centre of trade, especially in spice, and the Ottoman chefs borrowed, adapted and perfected dishes from many other cuisines. The results of this distillation spread far beyond its borders with Turkish style pastries using filo and nuts being used in many neighbouring countries plus the use of spices in many dishes and the popular method of grilling food , particularly meat, over charcoal. In Australia we are gradually learning that true Turkish food extends far beyond colourful vegetable dips, delicious pide bread and kebabs – however it’s a great way to start! In the past 10 years we’ve seen Turkish bread become a staple in many homes and loved in sandwich shops and cafes across the country. Becoming popular is the Turkish answer to sliced ham or pastrami – bastourma – air dried beef coated and cured in a mixture of dried ground spices. And how could we go past a locally made authentic Turkish delight with traditional coffee to finish a meal.