If you’re not familiar with this veggie, it may look alien or inedible to you. But the artichoke has a special place in Turkish cuisine, especially in the western province of Izmir – to be precise the Urla district, where the vegetable is celebrated with a three-day festival!

I am aware that artichokes are more of a spring vegetable but there are still plenty around at this time of year.

Artichoke dolma

Turks love their dolma in all shapes and forms. Dolma is a staple in Turkish kitchens and means stuffed or filled, usually referring to a vegetable but can also be done with fruit or even meat. This Izmir specialty is the first dish that comes to mind when on the topic of artichokes.

Ingredients