Kokoreç

Kokoreç is one of the most iconic and beloved street foods in Turkey, a delicacy that is as famous for its unique preparation as it is for its bold, savory flavor. It consists of lamb or goat intestines wrapped tightly around seasoned offal—typically sweetbreads, hearts, kidneys, or lungs—to form a dense, horizontal spit. This spit is then slow-roasted over a charcoal fire, allowing the fat to render and baste the meat as it spins, creating a crispy, well-seasoned outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The aroma of roasting kokoreç is unmistakable and serves as a beacon for hungry passersby in cities like Istanbul and Izmir.