Visiting Istanbul’s “Thailand & East/South Asian Market”

If you are a lover of Southeast Asian foods, then this review has a worthy activity for your time. The Thailand & East/South Asian Market Istanbul took place on Sunday 18 November, the third edition of the popular market series by Thai Women in Turkey.

In the market, there was not only cuisine native to Thailand, but also exotic cuisines from Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and many other countries in the region. As a Taiwanese exchange student, I genuinely felt homesick because of the familiar foods, languages, activities, and other familiarities there.

I was surprised to discover many various foods there which are harder to be found in Turkey. For example, satay originated from Malaysia and is one kind of South Eastern kebab. To make a satay, first, you should marinate the sliced meat (it can be chicken, beef, pork, or even tofu) with satay sauces. And then thread four or five pieces of meat on the toothpick in order to grill it. It tastes juicy, a little spicy, and truly delicious.

There were many other delightful cuisines, such as Japanese tofu (which is quite difficult to find in Turkey), Thai green papaya salad, Malaysian net crepe and Indonesian fried glutinous rice flour balls filled with mung bean paste.

Besides all the enticing food, there were a lot of activities. For instance, you could experience a mini Thai Massage, and enjoy Thai traditional dance shows and singing. Also, there was an exciting and free demonstration of Muay Thai padwork training for the guests, with the children enjoying it the most.

One aspect that really stood out to me the moment I entered the hall is how I was immediately attracted to all the colorful and shiny costumes. I just had to come closer to talk to the Indonesian woman who sold and handmade these traditional costumes.

One woman told me that the market is always a big success, with people much like myself, who want to come and have Thai food or even try it for the first time. She explained the difference in the food styles between Thai and Indonesian, admitting their similarity, but emphasizing that Thai food is usually spicier.

The markets are usually held at least once a year, and it is said there will be more food from different Southeast Asian countries next year. Wherever you are from, if you’re craving ‘authentic’ Southeast Asian food, don’t miss the market next time.

For more information, be sure and follow Thai Women in Turkey.

Photos by Özkan Aslan.