Mezes (starters) that decorate the tables of so many celebrations, whether large family gatherings or cheerful gatherings with friends, are made in different ways with different ingredients in almost every corner of Anatolia.

Turkish cuisine is rich in mezes, most of which are prepared with raw, fried or roasted vegetables and topped with yogurt or tomato sauce.

Acılı Ezme (Turkish-style salsa sauce), Haydari, Fava, Pilaki, Cacık, şakşuka, Yoğurtlu Kızartma (fried vegetables with yoghurt), Kırmızı Biber Sarması (stuffed paprika), Mücver, Pesteniyaz (bean salads) are among the well-known.