Authentic Gavurdağı Salad (Walnut & Tomato Salad)
Named after the Gavurdağı mountains in Gaziantep, this salad is all about the chop. It is juicy, crunchy, tangy, and the perfect side for any kebab.
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Recipe Details
Ingredients
Shopping List
- 4 medium TomatoesRipe and juicy, finely diced
- 1 cup WalnutsCoarsely chopped (Iri kıyım)
- 1 medium OnionRed or white, finely diced
- 2 medium Green PeppersSivri biber, finely diced
- 2 small CucumberOptional (Cengelkoy), finely diced
- 0.5 bunch ParsleyFinely chopped
- 3 tbsp Pomegranate MolassesNar ekşisi
- 4 tbsp Olive OilExtra virgin
- 1 tsp Sumac
- 1 tsp Red Pepper FlakesPul biber
- 1 tsp Salt
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Dice the tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and cucumbers (if using) into very small cubes (approx. 0.5 cm).
Chef's Tip: Use a sharp knife to avoid mashing the tomatoes.
Step 2
Place the diced onions in a small bowl and rub them with the sumac. This reduces the onion's bite and adds flavor.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, sumac-rubbed onions, and chopped parsley.
Step 4
Add the coarsely chopped walnuts. Save a few large pieces for garnish.
Chef's Tip: Walnuts should be crunchy, not dust.
Step 5
In a small jar, whisk together the olive oil, pomegranate molasses, salt, and red pepper flakes.
Step 6
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving so the flavors release.
Chef's Tip: The juices at the bottom are the best part.
Step 7
Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with the reserved walnuts and an extra drizzle of pomegranate molasses.
Congratulations!
You've successfully prepared an authentic Turkish dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
About This Recipe
Gavurdağı Salatası is not your average tossed salad. It hails from Gaziantep, the culinary capital of Turkey. What makes it special is the size of the chop—everything is diced very finely, almost like a salsa—and the generous use of walnuts and pomegranate molasses.
The Importance of "The Chop"
In a proper Gavurdağı salad, you should be able to get every single ingredient in one spoonful. The tomatoes, onions, and peppers must be diced to the same small size (about the size of a pea). This allows the flavors to meld instantly.
Pomegranate Molasses (Nar Ekşisi)
This is the soul of the dressing. You cannot make this salad with just lemon juice. The thick, sweet-and-sour pomegranate molasses reacts with the tomato juices and olive oil to create a dressing that you'll want to drink from the bowl.
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