Who’s the author? Özlem Warren is an award-winning author, Turkish food writer and cookery teacher, known for sharing the flavours of her homeland in an accessible, home-cook-friendly way. She teaches internationally and contributes to major food publications including Waitrose Food, delicious., Olive and The New York Times Cooking.

Özlem is the author of Özlem’s Turkish Table, which won a Gourmand Best in the World Award, as well as Sebze, another award-winning collection celebrating vegetarian Turkish cooking. Her work is rooted in a deep knowledge of Turkish food and a passion for bringing its dishes to a wider audience.

What’s it about? This book brings the flavours of Istanbul into your kitchen with over 80 recipes inspired by the city’s rich and varied food culture. Özlem draws on the many culinary influences that shape Istanbul’s cooking, offering a mix of well-loved classics and everyday dishes that are easy to recreate at home.

You’ll find everything from comforting, home-style restaurant meals to street food favourites and bakery treats, with recipes designed to be both practical and full of flavour. Whether you’re cooking a simple egg dish or something more substantial, this cookbook promises achievable recipes that still feel special.

Recipes we love: Hünkar Beğendi (Lamb Stew Over Smoked Aubergine), Soğanlı Menemen (Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes, Peppers and Onions), Kolay Gözleme (Easy Gözleme with Cheese and Spinach), Çerkez Tavuğu (Circassian Chicken with Walnut Sauce), and Şekerpare (Semolina Cookies in Syrup with Pistachios)

Perfect for: Home cooks who want to explore the flavours of Istanbul through accessible, flavour-packed recipes they can make again and again.