Turkish Dried Fruits: Turkey’s Delicious Treasure

Dried fruits are a more beneficial version of fresh fruits, which play an important role in a healthy and balanced diet. Dried fruits, which are rich in antioxidants and are a source of healthy fats and protein, are both delicious and healthy snacks.

Turkey, being the top producer and exporter of dried fruits worldwide, cannot be discussed without mentioning all the dried fruit and nuts varieties in Turkish cuisine. The Turkish people have been interested in these products for centuries, and healthy snacks have become an indispensable part of our cuisine.

There are many varieties of nuts produced in Turkey. Some types of nuts produced in the southeastern Anatolian region, such as apricots from Malatya and pistachios from Siirt and Gaziantep, are consumed more than others. Hazelnuts from the Black Sea region are also among the other delicious dried fruit and nut varieties produced in Turkey. These products have stood the test of time and offer a sweet vacation to those who visit Turkey.

Here is a list of the most delicious dried fruits and nuts that will provide you with energy for your adventures in Turkey:

Sultanas
Sultanas are a seedless grape variety grown extensively in the Aegean region. These grapes are processed after being sun-dried for about seven to eight days. When they are ready to eat, they become a rich source of carbohydrates.

In addition, sultanas contain B1, B2 vitamins, and various minerals. Therefore, the health benefits of sultanas are endless. Sultanas, which play an important role as a fuel source, help treat inflammation and fever, support child growth, and benefit the kidneys and liver.

Globally, Turkey is the largest producer of sultanas, and 25% of this production is exported.

Dried Figs
Turkey’s Aegean coast produces a large portion of the world’s fig supply. Turkey is the top producer of dried figs, with a 75% share of production. Figs are generally grown in the towns of Germencik, İncirliova, and Nazilli in the Aydın province. The climate of this region provides an excellent environment for fig growth, and Turkish figs stand out from others with their thin skin and natural honey content.

August, the harvest season, is the best time to visit Turkey’s southern coast to try fresh figs.

Dried Apricots
The city of Malatya in eastern Anatolia is known worldwide for its fresh and dried apricot production.

Turkish farmers harvest their fresh apricots in August, but the amount of ripeness determines the harvest time. Due to Malatya’s climate, Turkish apricots are generally sweeter than apricots produced worldwide.

Dried apricots are known as a vitamin and mineral source, containing vitamins A, B, C, E, iron, calcium, and magnesium. They also improve intestinal health and regulate bowel movements.

Dried Mulberries
Dried mulberries are known as “super fruits.” In addition to their perfect taste, mulberries are rich in vitamin C, protein, fiber, and calcium. They are one of the best snacks for those on a diet due to their low-calorie content.

In addition to reducing the risk of developing cancer, mulberries help maintain healthy skin, nails, and hair. The best regions to grow mulberries in Turkey are Elazığ and Malatya, and the harvest season is between July and August.

To keep your heart healthy, you should add a handful of Turkish dried mulberries to your daily diet.

Thompson Raisins
Sultanas and Thompson raisins come from the same seedless grape variety. If these raisins are not dipped in a special solution to speed up the drying process, they take longer to dry and therefore turn almost black.

Turkey is one of the best countries in the world for grape cultivation. Turkish farmers carefully harvest these grapes in August and September. These grape varieties have a thinner skin than sultanas. Like sultanas, Thompson raisins are an excellent source of carbohydrates.

Golden Raisins
Golden raisins have a lighter color than sultanas with an open golden color. They help people meet their daily vitamin and mineral needs.

Turkey is one of the best places to find plenty of golden raisins. They are easy to store and an excellent option as a decoration for various sweets such as cakes and biscuits. Dried golden raisins also help relieve constipation.

They protect your teeth and reduce the risk of cancer and heart attacks. Sweet lovers should consider golden raisins as an alternative to sugar in their diets.

Dried Sour Cherries
Turkey’s fresh sour cherries are harvested in July and August and are generally sun-dried naturally. Dried sour cherries are rich in antioxidants and are an excellent source of vitamin C.

Dried sour cherries help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They also help regulate sleep patterns and improve mood.

Turkey is a paradise of dried fruit and nut varieties. Don’t forget to taste these delicious snacks while exploring Turkey’s beautiful landscapes!