What is Yanyana Tavasi?
Yanyana Tavasi is a traditional Turkish oven-baked dish that combines tender lamb pieces with a variety of vegetables arranged side by side in a large shallow tray. The name “yanyana” translates to “side by side,” reflecting the unique arrangement of the ingredients. This dish originates from the rich culinary traditions of Türkiye, where communal dining and flavorful, slow-cooked meals are at the heart of the culture.

A Memorable Journey with Yanyana Tavasi

The origins of this dish are deeply personal for many, including those who first experienced it in Türkiye. One traveler fondly recalls sitting on carpets in a traditional mountain-side restaurant near Kemer, sharing a communal tray of Etli Yanyana Tavasi served with fresh bread. This sharing-style meal exemplifies the warmth and togetherness of Turkish dining traditions.

How to Make Yanyana Tavasi: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Ingredients

Meat and Marinade:
600 g boneless lamb shoulder or neck fillet cut into small pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Turkish sweet red pepper paste tatlı biber salçası
50 ml milk
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground Aleppo pepper pul biber
1 ½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried mint
Vegetables:
10 garlic cloves whole
2 onions chopped into 2cm pieces
1 courgette chopped into 2cm pieces
1 medium aubergine chopped into 2cm pieces
2 red bell peppers cored and chopped into 2cm pieces
2 green bell peppers cored and chopped into 2cm pieces
700 g potatoes peeled and chopped into 2cm cubes
4 tomatoes chopped into 2cm pieces
Seasonings:
2 bay leaves
1 ½ tsp sea salt flakes
¾ tsp coarse black pepper

Instructions

Marinate the Meat:
In a large baking tray, mix the olive oil, pepper paste, milk, spices, and oregano into a smooth paste. Add the lamb and garlic, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1-4 hours.
Prepare the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) or 200°C.
Arrange the Ingredients:
Season the lamb with salt and pepper, then place it in the center of the tray. Arrange the vegetables side by side (“yanyana”) around the meat in sections. Brush the vegetables with olive oil, nestle in bay leaves, and sprinkle with the remaining seasonings. Cover with parchment paper and foil.
Cook to Perfection:
Bake covered for 1 hour. Increase the oven temperature to 210°C (fan) or 230°C, remove the foil and parchment, baste the vegetables with pan juices, and cook uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
Serve:
Serve hot with fresh bread, a crisp salad, and a dollop of yogurt for the ultimate Turkish experience.

Serving Suggestions and Tips

Accompaniments: Pair Yanyana Tavasi with flatbreads like lavash or Turkish bazlama. A refreshing yogurt-based sauce or tzatziki complements the dish beautifully.
For Leftovers: Add extra vegetables and reheat in the oven to enjoy the next day.
Alternative Proteins: If lamb isn’t preferred, substitute with pork or chicken, ensuring the meat is sufficiently fatty for the best flavor development.

A Culinary Trip to Türkiye

Yanyana Tavasi isn’t just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Perfect for dinner parties, it invites conversation and connection as guests share from a communal tray. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Türkiye or exploring its cuisine for the first time, this dish offers a taste of authentic Turkish hospitality.

So, what are you having for dinner tonight? Try making Yanyana Tavasi and let its rich, aromatic flavors transport you straight to the heart of Türkiye!