Sesame Allergen Guide

Egyptian falafel - ground fava beans (not chickpeas like Levantine version) mixed with herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill), garlic, onions, deep-fried. Bright green interior. Served in aish baladi with tahini, salad, pickles. Breakfast & street food. Lighter than chickpea falafel.

Selection of small dishes served as appetizers, including hummus, cacık (yogurt with cucumbers), and various vegetable preparations.

Circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds, with a chewy interior and crispy exterior. Turkey's iconic street food, sold by vendors (simitçi) throughout cities, best enjoyed warm with Turkish tea, white cheese, olives, or Nutella. Istanbul consumes approximately 2.5 million simit daily. November 2025 artisan simit shops elevate this humble snack with specialty toppings, whole grain versions, and gourmet accompaniments.

A mixed rice dish with sautéed vegetables, seasoned meat (optional), a fried egg, and gochujang (chili paste). It's a colorful and nutritious meal, offering a balance of flavors and textures. Jeonju bibimbap is the most famous version, using up to 30 ingredients. The name means 'mixed rice' and the act of mixing all components before eating is essential to the experience.

Thinly sliced marinated beef in a sweet-savory soy sauce marinade with pear, garlic, and sesame oil. Typically grilled or stir-fried, bulgogi is one of Korea's most internationally recognized dishes. The tender texture comes from the pear enzymes which naturally tenderize the meat. Often served with lettuce wraps for a complete meal.

Thick-cut pork belly slices grilled at the table, wrapped in lettuce leaves with garlic, green chili peppers, ssamjang (fermented bean paste), and kimchi. Essential Korean dining experience emphasizing communal cooking and eating (회식 hoesik). Premium restaurants offer aged pork belly or heritage breed Jeju black pork. The ritual includes grilling over charcoal, cutting with scissors, and wrapping in ssam (lettuce or perilla leaves).