Dining Out with a Nickel Allergy: Your Guide to Turkish Cuisine

Navigating Turkish cuisine with a nickel allergy can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! With a mix of flavorful spices, fresh ingredients, and hearty dishes, Turkey’s culinary scene offers plenty of options—if you know what to look for. Let’s explore how to enjoy traditional Turkish meals safely.

Common Nickel Triggers in Turkish Food

Turkish dishes often feature legumes, nuts, and whole grains—common sources of nickel. Watch out for:

• Legume-based dishes: Lentil soups (mercimek çorbası), chickpea stews (nohut), or bean salads.
• Nuts and seeds: Used in desserts like baklava or as garnishes.
• Whole grains: Bulgur wheat in dishes like kısır (bulgur salad) or pilav.
• Canned or processed foods: Higher nickel content due to metal packaging.

Safe & Savory Alternatives

Turkey’s cuisine also boasts nickel-friendly options:

• Grilled meats: Try şiş kebap (skewered meats) or köfte (meatballs).
• Fresh vegetables: Opt for grilled or roasted veggies like patlıcan közleme (roasted eggplant).
• Dairy: Enjoy ayran (yogurt drink) or beyaz peynir (white cheese) in moderation.
• Seafood: Fresh fish dishes like levrek (sea bass) are often safe.

Tips for Stress-Free Dining

1. Use the MM Food App: Scan menus to instantly flag nickel-containing ingredients and get allergy-safe recommendations.
2. Ask about preparation: Confirm if dishes use stainless steel cookware, which may leach nickel.
3. Focus on fresh: Choose dishes made with minimally processed ingredients.
4. Communicate clearly: Learn phrases like "Nikel alerjim var" (I have a nickel allergy) to inform staff.

With MM Food, savor the richness of Turkish cuisine—without the worry. Bon appétit, or as they say in Turkey, afiyet olsun!