turkish DELIGHTS #2: Moussaka

The wide front of Kilikyas is floor to ceiling glass overlooking the yacht-filled docks beside Tower Bridge. Turkish men play with worry beads, drinking deep amber tea served in clear glass teapots as the rest of London chases its tail beyond the peaceful retreat of St Katharine Docks. A dreamy rendition of The Beatles’ Across the Universe adds to the laid back atmosphere that is filled with a mix of Turkish and English conversation and delicious smells of east Mediterranean food.

Moussaka is a classic Turkish aubergine/potato based dish with ground meat. There are variations but essentially they all originate from the same dish originally called ‘Musaqqa’ah’ meaning chilled. In Turkey the aubergine is sauteed with tomatoes, onions and minced meat and served either warm or at room temperature. In can also be, as the origin of its name suggests, often eaten cold.

“the laid back atmosphere is filled with a mix of Turkish and English conversation and delicious smells of east Mediterranean food

At Kilikyas it is served in the traditional Turkish way, warm and accompanied with a delicious chopped salad packed with rocket and peppery leaves. The base is made with a light bread, crisped a little from its position in the casserole dish while on top is a deep frothy topping of béchamel and rich tomato sauce.

The Moussaka makes for a big lunch; perhaps it’s best enjoyed in the evening or when the working day is over as it is difficult to leave Kilikyas feeling hungry, especially for a return to the office. It is far better to round off the meal with a leisurely coffee, a single cube of turkish delight and a stroll around the docks admiring the boats instead.

KILIKYA’S RESTAURANT
St Katharine Docks
London EC1
t: 020 7488 0813
w: www.kilikyas.com

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