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TurkishAuthentic Cuisine

Tavuk Döner Tabak

Serves 4 to 6 Entree chicken, Poultry

Tavuk Döner Tabak

Tavuk Döner Tabak brings the bustling energy of Turkish street food into the home kitchen. Originating from the lively street corners where döners rotate slowly, this dish has been adapted for family tables without losing its communal essence. It’s crafted with generous hand-measured salt and fat, mirroring the instinctive methods of street cooks. This home version invites you to savor the layers of tradition while enjoying a meal that feels both familiar and special.

Expect the chicken to be tender and richly flavored, with a hint of char that speaks to its origins. The dish should balance the savory notes of the meat with the freshness of a simple salad, complemented by the creamy tang of yogurt sauce. It's a harmony of textures and flavors, each bite a reminder of its street food lineage but tailored for a more intimate setting.

Ingredients

  • 700 gsliced döner chicken
  • rice — to serve
  • salad — to serve
  • to finishyogurt sauce
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by patting the 700 g sliced döner chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a good sear. Season the chicken generously with fine sea salt, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of oil, enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken slices in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the chicken on each side until it develops a deep golden color, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes per side. The chicken should be cooked through and have a slightly crisp exterior.
  2. Once the chicken is browned, add your choice of aromatics such as sliced onions or garlic to the pan. Stir them into the chicken, allowing them to soften and become fragrant. Cook the aromatics until they are tender and translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step infuses the chicken with additional flavor.
  3. If the chicken and aromatics have released too much liquid, increase the heat slightly to reduce the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more fine sea salt if necessary. The sauce should be flavorful and slightly thickened, coating the chicken well.
  4. To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or dill over the chicken. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish. Serve the Tavuk Döner Tabak with a side of rice and salad, and drizzle with yogurt sauce to taste. The dish should be well-balanced, with the richness of the chicken complemented by the freshness of the herbs and the tanginess of the yogurt sauce.
Cover of Authentic Turkish Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Turkish Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Turkish Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Turkish volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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