Late-Night Grill · Istanbul Classic

Kokoreç

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It's seasoned, spit-grilled lamb intestines — and it's one of the most fiercely loved late-night foods in Istanbul.

Seasoned lamb or goat intestines are wound around themselves, slow-grilled on a spit until crisp, then chopped fine with tomato, pepper, and oregano and stuffed into bread. Sold from smoking carts and kiosks across Istanbul, especially after dark.

Why it's made this way: Rooted in nose-to-tail cooking traditions that let nothing from the animal go to waste, kokoreç became a beloved cheap, fast bite — now a favorite way to end a night out.