Pilav (Turkish rice) , Sebzeli tavuk (a chicken dish) , salad, yogurt, and bread.

When you picture a celebratory dinner with friends, what do you imagine? A group of people sitting at a table, each with their own plate of food? That’s what a lot of people consider normal, at least back in the UK (although you could argue dinner on a tray in front of the tv is more normal for some! ;o) ) That is not the common thing here in Turkey. Dinner time is special.

Back in May, we went to our Turkish friends’ wedding. What an experience that was! (expect a post about that soon!!) A few days ago, they told us the good news that they are expecting their first baby.. or babies. They’re pregnant with twins! To celebrate, us, and a few of their family members went to their house for dinner. 

In Turkey, dinner time is family time, and traditionally food is eaten while sat on the floor. After working long hours and being away from the home all day, the entire family gathers around a blanket on the floor. A tray containing plates of food, a few loaves of fresh bread & a pile of cutlery is placed on the blanket and everyone tucks in, often sharing a plate between two or more people. Turkish people are very family orientated, I suppose why not share? On this particular occasion, we even shared drink glasses. I know what you’re thinking, I can hear you gasping in horror. I must admit, it used to bother me too. After a while, you get used to it. I actually have a lot of respect for this way of eating now. It’s special. The whole family gathered on the floor sharing food, no distractions, no greed. Everyone eats what they want. It’s practical more than anything else, less waste, and of course less washing up ;0) 

One thing I will say, however.. It gives you terrible pins & needles. Oww.
 xx