National Dish Turkey: Piyaz (Recipe)
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Meet Piyaz, the bright, refreshing white bean salad that is a fixture on Turkish tables. Tender beans are tossed with sharp onion, plenty of fresh parsley and a creamy, nutty tahini dressing sharpened with lemon. It is light yet satisfying, equally at home next to grilled meat in high summer or as a wholesome dish in its own right. With its clean coastal flavours, Piyaz brings a taste of the Aegean straight to your kitchen.
About Piyaz
Piyaz is not only a traditional Turkish dish but a genuine treat for the palate. This hearty white bean salad wins people over with its fresh ingredients and a balance of flavours that calls to mind the shores of the Aegean. In summer especially it makes a wonderfully refreshing side, perfect alongside grilled meat or fish. Thanks to the beans it is also rich in protein and fibre, making it a welcome part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g white beans (cooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 2–3 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for Piyaz, look for freshly cooked or good-quality dried white beans, as these give the best flavour and the right texture. It is well worth choosing high-quality oils and ingredients, since they shape the character of the dish more than you might expect. The parsley and onion should be fresh and crisp so their aromas really shine through in the finished salad.
Preparing the dish
Preparing Piyaz is quick and straightforward. Begin by cooking or soaking the white beans if you are using dried ones. While the beans simmer, you can get the seasonings and dressing ready, so everything is within easy reach. With your ingredients prepped, the salad comes together in just a few minutes.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the white beans if you are using dried ones, then leave them to cool.
- Finely chop the onion and the parsley.
- Combine the beans in a bowl with the onion and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper into a creamy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the bean salad and toss everything together well.
- Serve the Piyaz fresh and enjoy!
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Piyaz is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. When buying tahini, check that it contains no unwanted additives so the dish stays as wholesome as possible. That makes it an excellent choice for anyone with specific food intolerances. If you are particularly sensitive, it is always sensible to reach for certified gluten-free products to be on the safe side.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Piyaz is a brilliant option for vegans and vegetarians, not just for meat lovers. The pairing of beans and tahini delivers valuable protein and a genuinely nourishing meal. To make it more exciting still, you can add a variety of vegetables or adjust the dressing with mustard or garlic. Experiment with different herbs for extra layers of flavour, much as you might when making a fresh Sarma.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tips can make your Piyaz even tastier. For a richer dressing, stir in a small spoonful of yoghurt for extra creaminess. A splash of vinegar can also introduce an interesting contrast of flavours. It is well worth letting the salad rest for a couple of hours before serving, so the aromas have time to mingle and develop.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of Piyaz lies in how flexible the recipe is. You can adjust the quantities entirely to suit your own taste — use more or less onion or parsley depending on what you prefer. Feel free to add other pulses too, such as chickpeas or kidney beans, to bring new textures and flavours to the bowl.
Ingredient substitutions
There are plenty of alternatives you can work into your Piyaz. In place of tahini, a smooth sesame paste offers a very similar taste, while a good-quality avocado oil can stand in for olive oil and lend the salad an interesting note. Be creative and adapt the recipe to whatever you happen to have to hand.
Drink pairing ideas
Several drinks pair beautifully with Piyaz. A fresh mint tea rounds off the Turkish experience nicely, while a glass of rakı makes a flavourful companion for those who enjoy it. Sparkling mineral water or a lightly fruity sangria can also offer a refreshing counterpoint to the dish. Choose whatever suits your taste and enjoy the meal to the full.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present Piyaz can impress your guests. Serve the salad in an attractive, deep bowl and garnish it with fresh herbs. A drizzle of olive oil and a scattering of toasted nuts or seeds make lovely finishing touches. Aim to highlight the natural colours of the ingredients so the dish looks as appealing as it tastes — a trick that works just as well with a vibrant platter of Midye Dolma.
A bit of history
Piyaz has a long history in Turkish cooking and is often associated with regional feasts. It began life as a simple dish of rural communities and has, over the years, grown into a popular feature on the menus of many restaurants. While the classic ingredients stay much the same, the preparation varies from region to region, giving rise to a wonderful diversity. Enjoy, as so many have before you, the flavours that have shaped this dish across generations of Turkish cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Piyaz
In short, Piyaz is a delicious and nourishing white bean salad that is easy to put together. With fresh ingredients and a range of bright flavours, it is the perfect accompaniment to all sorts of dishes. Whether served as a side or as a light main course, Piyaz brings a little piece of Turkey to your table. Let it inspire you and enjoy your homemade Piyaz to the full!
