Tarhana soup, a miraculous broth steeped in history, sparks curiosity far and wide. This wholesome delight, often dubbed the “wonder soup,” carries with it tales of healing and comfort. As we delve into the secrets of tarhana soup, you’ll uncover everything there is to know about this fascinating dish. From its rich history to the intriguing tales surrounding its place in Turkish cuisine, prepare to be captivated by the story of tarhana.
The History of Tarhana Soup
The origins of tarhana soup are as rich and complex as its flavor. This culinary masterpiece dates back to the Ottoman era, and according to some sources, even to the Seljuk Empire. Tarhana symbolizes the ingenuity and culinary richness of Anatolia, showcasing the region’s ability to create nourishing and flavorful dishes from simple ingredients. Despite being a staple in Turkish kitchens for centuries, tarhana soup’s inclusion in royal cuisine and its presence at the sultans’ dinner tables come with a fascinating narrative.

One legend tells of an Ottoman Sultan, while another version credits Sultan Yavuz Selim Han’s vizier. Disguised among their subjects during a cold Ramadan to witness their hardships firsthand, they stumbled upon a humble household just hours before iftar. As tradition would have it, they decided to break their fast at the first home they came across where the call to prayer was heard. Sultan Yavuz Selim Han found himself in front of a house where an elderly woman invited him in for iftar. The meal was simple: tarhana soup and bread. The Sultan was so impressed by the soup that he inquired about it. The elderly woman referred to it as “darhane soup.” This term, over time, evolved into “tarhana” throughout Anatolia, with some regions even shortening it to “tarana.”
These stories not only highlight tarhana’s enduring presence in Turkish cuisine but also illustrate the cultural and historical layers embedded in this seemingly simple dish. The transformation of tarhana from a humble meal to a dish fit for a sultan epitomizes the richness of Turkish culinary tradition, where every meal has a story to tell.
Who invented tarhana?
While the name might suggest a connection to Arab culture, tarhana, according to many sources, has been a part of Turkish society for over a thousand years, making its origins undoubtedly Turkish. This traditional soup, rich in history and nutritional value, stands as a testament to the enduring culinary traditions of Turkey. Known for its unique preparation process and the health benefits it offers, tarhana encapsulates the essence of Turkish cuisine and its ability to span centuries.
Is Tarhana Soup Turkish or Greek?
This question frequently arises, prompting a definitive answer in the midst of widespread misinformation, especially proliferated through social media, which sometimes falsely attributes tarhana to Greek cuisine. However, the question of whether tarhana is Turkish or Greek doesn’t entirely make sense. Since both Arab and Turkish culinary traditions know and use the main ingredient, tarhana herb, debating whether tarhana soup belongs to Arab or Turkish cuisine might have some logic. Unfortunately for the claim, Greek cuisine does not feature tarhana herb. If we delve into the research of historians who study culinary cultures, it becomes clear that Greek cuisine and tarhana soup don’t even appear in the same sentence. Therefore, the answer is unequivocal: tarhana is a Turkish soup. This clarity dispels any confusion and reaffirms the rich and unique heritage of Turkish culinary culture.
What is Tarhana Soup Made Of?
Tarhana soup, unlike other winter soups, includes dried vegetables but with a twist! What sets tarhana apart is the inclusion of tarhana herb. This miraculous herb, part of the buckwheat family, does not grow everywhere. It’s one of the key elements that give tarhana its distinctive, slightly tangy taste. Other ingredients encompass tomatoes, onions, garlic, yogurt, mint, thyme, hot peppers according to taste, dried red bell peppers, and groats. These components lay the foundation of tarhana across Turkey, though variations exist from region to region. For example, in the highlands, it’s common to add soured goat’s milk to the mix. Those in metropolitan areas maintaining their culture but unable to find tarhana herb might opt for what’s colloquially known as “fake tarhana” (sans the herb). However, preparing tarhana soup is far from simple; it’s the culmination of weeks of effort.



Initially, one prepares tarhana during the hot summer months to sun-dry the mixture into a fine powder. The process begins with the preparation of vegetables, spices, and all necessary ingredients, chopping them into small pieces. In a large cauldron, one combines and mixes these, similar to kneading dough, aiming for a homogeneous texture. The addition of high-moisture ingredients like yogurt, milk, and tomatoes creates a doughy consistency. The dough turns an orange-yellow hue (varying based on the ingredients used) indicating readiness. Then, the tarhana dough is portioned into palm-sized pieces and laid out on a cloth or tablecloth to dry in the sun. The exact drying time varies based on location, month of preparation, and that summer’s heat. However, a good indication of readiness is when the dough does not stick to your hands and crumbles like a biscuit. This texture is what you aim for.
Is tarhana Vegetarian?
Absolutely, tarhana champions the vegetarian diet with flair and gusto, devoid of any meat or meat derivatives. Yet, it’s important to note, for those on the vegan journey, that tarhana does weave dairy products like yogurt and milk into its comforting embrace, setting it apart from vegan options. This sumptuous soup, bursting with the vibrant tastes of Turkish cuisine, stands as a beacon for vegetarians seeking nourishment and flavor in their meals. The inclusion of dairy not only enriches its texture but also enhances its nutritional profile, offering a wholesome meal that warms the soul and delights the palate. Tarhana, with its rich heritage and deliciously tangy profile, is a testament to the versatility and depth of vegetarian cooking, making it a celebrated choice among those who cherish the earth’s bounties.
Is Tarhana Gluten-Free? Can celiac patients consume tarhana?
Celiac disease, increasingly prevalent in our country, renders individuals unable to digest gluten due to the absence of specific bacteria in their intestines. Those diagnosed with celiac disease must adhere to a gluten-free diet, making the gluten content in tarhana a critical concern for them. Tarhana, a food obtained through fermentation, inherently contains sugar and gluten, making it unsuitable for consumption by individuals with celiac disease. Doctors prescribe a special diet for celiac patients, focusing on gluten-free foods to prevent adverse health effects. Thus, incorporating tarhana into a celiac patient’s diet without risking health complications is not advisable.
What is Tarhana Good For?

Tarhana soup might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of high-energy foods, but it’s a miracle soup for other reasons. Thanks to its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and active compounds, tarhana plays a crucial role in maintaining our hormonal balance and intestinal health. It’s an excellent probiotic, which is incredibly important nowadays with the prevalence of global pandemics such as COVID, swine flu, and ERIS. Strengthening our immune system has never been more crucial. In an experiment involving 36 participants, researchers served half of the group one portion of tarhana soup before their morning and evening meals. The other half received identical meals but without the tarhana soup. After one month, the group that consumed tarhana soup had healthier blood values, and their bodies responded to infections and diseases much more rapidly and effectively.
Moreover, Turks believe that tarhana can cure countless ailments, and research on its active compounds shows promising results in significantly suppressing cancer formation. This tradition, which has been ongoing for hundreds of years, does not only cater to our taste buds. It also offers the potential for a healthy life. The legacy of tarhana soup, with its myriad of health benefits, continues to be a testament to the wisdom embedded in traditional Turkish cuisine.
How is Tarhana Soup Made?
Once dried in the sun and rested, tarhana can be crumbled into powder and preserved without spoiling for years. But how do we transform this miraculous product into soup? Let’s explain. Generally, for one serving of tarhana soup, you would use one tablespoon of tarhana, adjusting the amount based on the number of servings needed.

Firstly, you must soak the tarhana in cold water for 15-20 minutes to soften and dissolve it. The powdered tarhana slowly turns into a muddy consistency upon contact with water. Then, transfer it to a pot and add cold water. Slowly heat it on a low flame and bring to a boil, stirring continuously to prevent it from settling at the bottom and ensuring a homogeneous soup. For a thicker consistency, add approximately 1.5 cups of water per spoon of tarhana; for a lighter soup, add 2 cups. After it starts boiling, you can remove it from the heat in 1-2 minutes. If it turns out more liquid than desired, uncover, continue heating on low heat while stirring, and allow the excess water to evaporate.
While you can make the soup with just tarhana and water, adding some vegetables can enhance its flavor. The most popular choice in Turkish cuisine is adding cowpea cut into about 3-4 cm lengths when putting the pot on the stove. Cowpea complements tarhana very well. Additionally, it’s known that chickpeas or beans are added in Central Anatolia. Keeping these tips in mind will help you craft a delicious bowl of tarhana soup, rich in tradition and taste.
I highly recommend checking out my blog posts linked below as well!
Turkish Yogurt: The Fermented Miracle of Turkish Culture
Doner or Gyro: The Delicious Duel Between Turkish and Greek
Gut Health Harmonizing: The Essential Guide
Turkish Culinary Culture: Neighbors’ Similarities and Differences
Turkish or Greek?: Which food belongs to which culinary culture?
Cacık: Belongs to Turkish or Greek Cuisine?
If you’re looking to purchase tarhana, you can follow the links below.
Organic Turkish tarhana on amazon
Organic Turkish tarhana for baby on amazon