Yüksük Soup Recipe

A Taste Travelling from Anatolia to Ramadan Tables

Yüksük soup is a deeply rooted dish, particularly associated with the cuisine of South-eastern Anatolia, though it appears in many regions with different interpretations. It takes its name from the tiny dumplings inside, shaped like thimbles — “yüksük” meaning thimble in Turkish. This detail gives the dish both visual charm and technical finesse.

In Turkish cuisine, soup is not simply a starter; it forms the foundation of the meal. Yüksük soup is one of the strongest representatives of this tradition. With its handmade dough pieces, chickpeas, rich meat broth and yoghurt-based dressing, it can be filling enough to serve as a meal on its own. For this reason, it is considered especially suitable during Ramadan, when the body needs gentle yet nourishing food after long hours of fasting.

The Importance of Yüksük Soup at Ramadan Tables

Dishes preferred for iftar usually share three qualities:
– nourishing
– well-balanced
– easy to digest

Yüksük soup meets all three perfectly. That is why it often tops lists of Ramadan recipes. Particularly when planning the first day’s iftar, it offers a reliable and traditional way to begin the meal.

Yüksük Soup Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups plain flour

• 1 egg

• ½ tea glass of water

• A pinch of salt

For the Soup

• 1 cup boiled chickpeas

• 5 cups meat or beef stock (or hot water)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Yoghurt Dressing

• 1 cup plain yoghurt

• 1 egg yolk

• 1 tablespoon flour

To Finish

• 1 teaspoon dried mint

• ½ teaspoon chilli flakes

Preparing the Dumplings

Place the flour in a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Add the egg, salt and water, then knead until you obtain a firm dough. After letting it rest, roll the dough out thinly and cut it into small squares. Press each square lightly with your fingertip to create a thimble-like shape.

This step defines the character of the soup. Smaller dumplings ensure both visual elegance and a better flavour balance.

Cooking the Soup

Bring the stock to a boil in a large pot. Add the dumplings and cook until they rise to the surface. Stir in the boiled chickpeas.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the yoghurt, egg yolk and flour to prepare the dressing. Gradually temper the mixture with a few ladles of hot soup, then slowly add it back to the pot while stirring continuously to prevent curdling.

Finally, melt the butter and olive oil in a small pan, add the dried mint and chilli flakes, and drizzle over the soup before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Texture

• The dough should not be too soft

• Always temper the yoghurt dressing before adding it

• Reduce the heat once the soup begins to simmer

These steps are key to achieving the right consistency and flavour.

Why Start Iftar with Soup?

After long hours of fasting, the stomach needs to be eased back into digestion. Beginning with heavy or oily dishes can be challenging for the body. That’s why soup always takes priority when planning Ramadan meals.

With its balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates and fluids, Yüksük soup gently reactivates digestion.

Nutritional Balance of Yüksük Soup

Dough → provides energy
Yoghurt → supports digestion
Meat stock → adds minerals and protein
Chickpeas → prolong fullness

This harmony allows for a smooth transition from soup to the main course.

Why Choose Yüksük Soup for the First Day of Iftar?

The first day of Ramadan often calls for meaningful, familiar and comforting dishes. Yüksük soup perfectly fits this expectation with both its cultural significance and its satisfying nature.

It is also practical for large gatherings, can be prepared in advance, and retains its flavour when reheated.

A Balanced Ramadan Dish Rooted in Tradition

Yüksük soup is more than just a soup; it reflects the patience, care and spirit of sharing that define Turkish cuisine. Serving it during Ramadan brings both flavour and meaning to the table.

If you are looking for a classic yet dependable Ramadan recipe this year, Yüksük soup may well be the perfect choice for your iftar.