Piyaz

A traditional Turkish salad or side dish

Piyaz

A traditional serving of Piyaz

Piyaz is a traditional Turkish salad or side dish that primarily consists of beans, onion, parsley, and sumac. It is a popular dish in Turkey and is often served as an accompaniment to grilled meats or as part of a meze platter.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of piyaz include:

• White beans or navy beans
• Onions, typically sliced thinly
• Parsley, chopped
• Sumac, a tangy spice
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Optional ingredients may include:

• Tomatoes, diced
• Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Red pepper flakes
• Garlic, minced

Preparation

Piyaz is prepared by first cooking the beans until they are tender. Once cooked, the beans are drained and allowed to cool. The onions are sliced thinly and can be soaked in water to reduce their sharpness. The parsley is chopped finely.

In a large bowl, the beans are combined with the onions, parsley, and any additional ingredients such as tomatoes or eggs. The salad is then dressed with olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and sumac. The ingredients are gently mixed to ensure even distribution of the dressing and spices.

Serving

Piyaz is typically served at room temperature. It can be presented as a side dish alongside grilled meats such as kebabs or köfte, or as part of a larger meze spread. The dish is often garnished with additional parsley or slices of hard-boiled egg.

Variations

While the basic recipe for piyaz remains consistent, regional variations exist throughout Turkey. In some areas, tahini is added to the dressing, giving the salad a richer flavor. In the Antalya region, piyaz is made with a special type of bean called "çandır fasulyesi" and often includes tahini in the dressing.

Cultural Significance

Piyaz is a staple in Turkish cuisine and is enjoyed both in homes and restaurants. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and is appreciated for its simplicity and refreshing flavor.

Related pages

• Turkish cuisine
• Meze
• Kebab
• Salad