Turkish dried fruits play a significant role in the country’s cuisine and export economy. Türkiye is recognized as the world’s leading producer and exporter of dried fruits, with a variety of products that have become staples both domestically and internationally.
Among the most popular dried fruits are sultanas, which are seedless grapes grown primarily around İzmir in the Aegean region. These grapes are sun-dried for about a week before being processed for consumption. Sultanas are valued for their carbohydrate content and vitamins B1 and B2, as well as minerals that support child growth and kidney health. Türkiye accounts for 25% of global sultana raisin production, exporting 85% of its output abroad.
The Aegean coast also produces most of the world’s figs, with Türkiye responsible for 75% of global dried fig production. The southwestern province of Aydın is particularly noted for its fig cultivation due to favorable climate conditions.
Malatya in Eastern Anatolia is known worldwide for its apricots, both fresh and dried. Turkish apricots from this region tend to be sweeter because of local climate factors. Dried apricots offer vitamins A, B, C, E along with iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Dried mulberries are regarded as superfruits in Türkiye due to their high vitamin C content and other nutrients such as protein, fiber, and calcium. They are low in calories and considered beneficial snacks that may help reduce cancer risk.
Thompson raisins originate from seedless grapes similar to those used for sultanas but require a longer drying process which gives them a darker color. These raisins are harvested mainly during August and September.
Golden raisins stand out because of their lighter color compared to sultanas. They provide daily vitamins and minerals needs across age groups while serving as an ingredient in desserts or sugar substitutes due to their sweetness.
Dried sour cherries are harvested between July and August before being sun-dried naturally. They contain vitamin A and support eye health while offering benefits like reduced cancer risk.
Turkish apples—especially Red Delicious—are commonly consumed both fresh or dried throughout the country. Dried apples supply antioxidants that improve blood flow and digestive health.
Prunes (erik kurusu) have been part of Turkish diets since Ottoman times due to their rich fiber content alongside potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin A.
The diversity found among Turkish dried fruits reflects regional agricultural strengths—from Malatya’s apricots to Black Sea hazelnuts—and continues to draw attention from visitors seeking healthy snack options during travels across Türkiye.