Books, Boots and Bakeries

I came across Meliz’s Kitchen by Meliz Berg in the loveliest way—over dinner at a dear friend’s place. Her husband is a Turkish Cypriot, and I’ll be honest, it wasn’t a cuisine I’d really thought about before. But that night? We sat on the balcony of their gorgeous North Shore home, the sky turning beautiful shades of pink, sipping a bit too much wine, and enjoying the kind of summer dinner that just makes everything feel easy and good. And the food—wow. It completely won me over.

I ordered the book not long after, and truthfully? It’s the one I reach for most often now.

Meliz’s recipes feel like comfort food in the best way—hearty, full of flavour, and always with a little twist that makes them feel special. The altı saat yavaş pişirilmiş kuzu eti (six-hour slow-roasted lamb shoulder) has become my go-to when I’ve got people over. I even keep nar taneleri (pomegranate seeds) in the freezer these days, which is not something I ever thought I’d say.

The fırında patates kızartması (crispy baked chips) are the kind of side dish you make once and then forever find excuses to make again—they go with everything, and they’re so satisfying. I love a one-pot meal and anything slow-cooked, and this book has delivered every single time. There hasn’t been a dud dish yet.

One standout is the hellimli fırında tavuk (roast chicken stuffed with halloumi and tomato)—it’s packed with flavour and the sort of thing that makes people think you’ve gone to way more effort than you actually have. That’s my kind of cooking.

Meliz brings so much warmth, heritage, and heart to her recipes. Even if you’ve never cooked Turkish Cypriot food before, this book makes it approachable and joyful. And if you fall in love with it like I did? She’s got a follow-up book, plus a glowing Instagram and YouTube page that are absolutely worth checking out. Her videos feel like a big warm hug—just like her food.

Whether you’re new to the cuisine or just looking for something a little different, Meliz’s Kitchen is well worth a spot on your shelf (and maybe a corner of your freezer too).