Susan Wong and I recently set out an interesting challenge for ourselves: try a new cuisine for the very first time this week.

Being the foodie that she is, Wong’s first reaction went something like, “But what haven’t I tried before?”

As the relatively unadventurous one when it comes to their palette, mine sounded more like, “Do you really expect me to put that in my mouth?”

To make it even more interesting, we both happen to be in different parts of the world at the moment, I will be on the beautiful shores of Bel Ombré, Mauritius, while Susan will be invibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa.

This challenge got me thinking about my recent trip to Istanbul, Turkey, and the foods that I got to try for the first time ever. I’m sure there’s a whole lot more interesting foods that one could try but here are the six that I’d definitely recommend to someone! So here goes:

Turkish Delight

Believe it or not, I had never tasted a Turkish Delight before my trip, and my first time happened to be aboard Turkish Arlines! Loved it so much I ended up asking for more and spent a good chunk of my trip hunting down this sweet treat in different flavours!

Turkish Tea

Before I get into the tea, allow me to gush over the presentation – how cute is this glass? Add a dash of honey if you like your tea a little sweeter and you’re good to go.

Spice Market

You know you’re in for business when you’ve got an entire market dedicated to spices. I did get myself a special blend of tea (with dried flowers and fruits) and some special spices for Miss Mandi– from Kajun, Sweet BBQ, Special mix and Smoked spice – which I’m sure will make her way into The Chop Up soon!

Turkish Kebab

I’d heard about this even before I’d left Kenya. I got my first taste aboard Turkish Airlines (see drool-worthy meal below) and got to taste another at a local restaurant (although that was devoured before the camera was whipped out so you’ll just have to take my word on it when I tell you it was delicious!). I guess that’s one of the perks of flying with the national airlines – you get to start your Turkish experience even before you land!

The Flying Ice cream

Whoever said you shouldn’t play with your food clearly hadn’t met these ice cream vendors. They call it the flying ice cream because the vendors have mastered the art of juggling the cold treat and teasing customers before finally handing it over! Such a cool, (pun intended) fun experience and perfect if you’re travelling to the country in the summer.

Kumpir

An oven baked potato (that’s about the size of your head) whipped with cheese and served with the topping of your choice. If that doesn’t create a mouth-watering picture, I can’t really help you! This delicacy is a popular one across the country and rather easy to find.

Of course the country has a lot more to offer in terms of cuisines but these are the few that I did try for the first time and loved! Any special treats you’ve tried before?