Traditional Tirit from Konya

Tirit is one of the most popular and well-known dishes in Konya. Stale bread is soaked in flavorful meat broth and topped with shredded meat. It’s seasoned with butter and red pepper sauce and usually served with yogurt. People often enjoy it especially during the colder months.

Tirit holds a special place in Konya’s rich culinary heritage as a beloved traditional dish that beautifully showcases the city’s love for simple yet flavorful food.

What makes Konya’s Tirit special is that, although it’s made with simple ingredients, it is both filling and tasty. This dish holds an important place in Konya’s food culture and is a common favorite at many tables.

Ingredients

• 4-5 cups stale or toasted bread pieces 
• 500g lamb or beef 
• 1 large onion
• 3-4 cups water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Plain yogurt 

Recipe

First, place the meat and whole onion in a pot, add water, and simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender. Remove the meat from the broth and shred it into small pieces. Strain the broth and set it aside.

Next, arrange the stale bread pieces on a wide plate and pour the hot broth over them, allowing the bread to soak and soften completely. Once softened, top the bread with the shredded meat.

In a small pan, melt the butter and add the red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle for a minute to release their flavor. Drizzle this buttery, spicy sauce over the Tirit. Serve it alongside plain yogurt to enjoy the comforting taste of Konya’s traditional Tirit.