Balık Ekmek, a beloved Turkish street food, features grilled or fried fish served in a sandwich with lettuce, onions, and sometimes pickles. Originating from Istanbul, it reflects the city's rich culinary heritage and maritime influence. Traditionally, the fish is seasoned with spices like red pepper flakes and sumac before being grilled to perfection. The sandwich is often enjoyed alongside stunning views of the Bosphorus, making it a quintessential Istanbul experience. Over time, Balık Ekmek has become a symbol of Turkish street food culture, cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients:

- Fresh fish fillets (such as mackerel or sea bass)

- Bread rolls or baguettes

- Lettuce leaves

- Sliced onions

- Optional: pickles

Method:

1. Preheat a grill or frying pan over medium-high heat.

2. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.

3. Grill or fry the fish until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.

4. While the fish is cooking, slice the bread rolls or baguettes in half and lightly toast them.

5. Place lettuce leaves and sliced onions on the bottom half of each roll.

6. Once the fish is cooked, place it on top of the lettuce and onions.

7. Optionally, add pickles on top of the fish.

8. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bread roll or baguette.

9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Balık Ekmek!

Nutrition Value:

1. Fresh Fish Fillets (such as mackerel or sea bass) per 100g serving:

- Calories: Approximately 200 calories.

- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram.

- Protein: Around 20-25 grams.

- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams.

- Sodium: Less than 100 milligrams.

- Cholesterol: Around 50 milligrams.

- Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins (especially B12), vitamin D, and some minerals like selenium.

- Minerals: Good source of selenium, iodine, and potassium.

- Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Bread Rolls or Baguettes per serving (1 roll or 100g):

- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories.

- Carbohydrates: Around 50-60 grams.

- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams.

- Fat: Around 2-5 grams.

- Sodium: Approximately 400-500 milligrams.

- Cholesterol: None.

- Vitamins: Some B vitamins, especially if made from whole grains.

- Minerals: Contains some iron, zinc, and magnesium.

- Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates and some essential nutrients, with whole grain options offering more fiber and nutrients.

3. Lettuce Leaves per serving (1 cup or 50g):

- Calories: Approximately 5 calories.

- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram.

- Protein: Less than 1 gram.

- Fat: Less than 1 gram.

- Sodium: Less than 5 milligrams.

- Cholesterol: None.

- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin K and vitamin A, also contains vitamin C and folate.

- Minerals: Contains small amounts of potassium and manganese.

- Nutritional Benefit: Low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K.

4. Sliced Onions per serving (1/2 cup or 100g):

- Calories: Approximately 30-40 calories.

- Carbohydrates: Around 7-9 grams.

- Protein: Less than 1 gram.

- Fat: Less than 1 gram.

- Sodium: Less than 5 milligrams.

- Cholesterol: None.

- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C and some B vitamins like folate and pyridoxine.

- Minerals: Contains potassium, manganese, and small amounts of other minerals.

- Nutritional Benefit: Provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

5. Optional: Pickles per serving (1 pickle or 30g):

- Calories: Approximately 5-10 calories.

- Carbohydrates: Around 1-2 grams.

- Protein: Less than 1 gram.

- Fat: Less than 1 gram.

- Sodium: Approximately 200-300 milligrams.

- Cholesterol: None.

- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and some B vitamins.

- Minerals: High in sodium, may contain small amounts of calcium and iron.

- Nutritional Benefit: Low in calories but high in sodium; provides some vitamins and minerals, but consumption should be moderated.