Where East Meets West: Turkish & German Comfort Food at its Best

Hi there! I’m Isilay, and I’m thrilled to share my food journey with you. Born and raised in the small town of Geislingen an der Steige in southern Germany, I grew up in a place where tradition and community are at the heart of everything. But my roots go even deeper—my family’s Turkish heritage has shaped me in ways I never even realized until I started cooking.

Food has always been a big part of my life, thanks to my amazing mom, who is hands down the best cook in the world. From a young age, she taught me the ins and outs of Turkish cuisine—how to blend spices, slow-cook stews, and create dishes that tell a story with every bite. Her kitchen was where I first fell in love with cooking, and to this day, her recipes remain my inspiration.

But growing up in Germany means I also have a deep love for classic German food. There's something so comforting about it—simple, hearty dishes that nourish not just the body, but the soul. Whether it’s a rich Swabian lentil soup, a warm potato salad, or fresh-baked bread, German food is all about tradition and bringing people together around the table.

In this blog, I’m combining the best of both worlds: the bold flavors and rich spices of Turkish cuisine, and the simple, soul-satisfying comfort of German food. From my mom’s favorite Turkish dishes to the heartwarming German meals that remind me of home, I’ll share the recipes and stories that have shaped my love for food.

So, join me on this culinary journey, and let’s cook up something delicious from two cultures that are as close to my heart as the dishes themselves!