Chef Halise will teach delicious, authentic Turkish dishes followed by a sit-down meal.

Turkish cuisine is famous for its warmth, hospitality, and vibrant mix of flavours — a delicious blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences. Expect aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and colourful vegetables in every dish. From Karniyarik (aubergine stuffed with lamb mince) to Sarma (vine leaves filled with fragrant rice), Turkish cooking celebrates balance, generosity, and community.

In this cookery class in Bristol, you’ll learn to make traditional Turkish dishes while connecting with others and supporting refugees and migrants in the UK through food.

A message from chef Halise:

“My name is Halise. I am from eastern Turkey, although at university I met people from other regions and learnt about various different cultures and recipes.

I grew up in a big city with my three older sisters, who were already helping my mum in the kitchen. I was always asking, ‘Please can I help?’ and by the time I went to university, I had learned to cook simply by watching them.

Every summer, I loved visiting my mum’s family in the village. They grew and cooked their own vegetables, and I spent hours with my grandma learning to make yoghurt and cheese — traditions I still keep for my own family today.

Big meals at home with family and friends were an important part of our lives. We cooked in huge pots, sharing both food and stories. Turkish food traditions are incredibly varied, full of dishes for every occasion — from simple home meals to great family feasts.”

ON THE MENU (subject to change):

• Karniyarik (Fried Aubergine with Lamb Mince) | Meat (Lamb)
• Imam Bayildi (Stuffed Fried Aubergine) | Vegan
• Sarma (Stuffed Vine Leaves) | Vegan
• Kisir (Bulgur Wheat Salad) | Vegan; Gluten (Wheat)
• Haydari (Yoghurt and Cucumber Dip) | Vegetarian; Milk, Tree Nuts (Walnuts)
• Pilav (Turkish-style Rice with Vermicelli) | Vegetarian; Gluten (Wheat), Milk
• Pişi (Fried Bread) | Vegetarian; Gluten (Wheat), Eggs, Milk

This menu contains meat (lamb) but is vegetarian-friendly, with 6 of 7 dishes meat-free. Allergens include: gluten, milk, tree nuts, and eggs.

Please let us know if you have specific dietary requirements so our team is aware ahead of the class. Kindly note that we are unable to substitute ingredients, so please only book into classes that suit your dietary needs. See our Food and Allergen Policy for more information.

Join Halise’s hands-on, social cookery class in Bristol to learn to make authentic Turkish dishes and celebrate the flavours and stories brought to the UK through food.

Starts at £45.