Mangal II Cookbook Review

Mangal II: Stories and Recipes

We're back with another restaurant cookbook review, and this time, we're thrilled to dive into Manual II: Stories & Recipes.

Created by Ferhat and Sertaç Dirik, this book takes readers into the world of Mangal II, a celebrated East London restaurant known for its unique take on Turkish cuisine.

Featuring a foreword by Action Bronson and striking photography by Justin De Souza, this cookbook pairs engaging stories with thoughtfully crafted recipes, reflecting the Dirik brothers' modern approach to Turkish flavors.

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The Legacy of Mangal II

Located in the culturally rich neighborhood of Dalston, Mangal II has been a cornerstone of East London's culinary scene since 1994. Founded by the Dirik family, it became an emblem of Turkish cuisine in the UK, merging authenticity with modernity.

Today, under the leadership of Ferhat and Sertaç, the restaurant has evolved into a groundbreaking Anatolian dining experience.

This cookbook details their journey, paying homage to their father's legacy and the eclectic neighborhood that shaped them. For over 30 years, Mangal II has been more than a restaurant—it's been a cultural icon, a space where community, art, and gastronomy intersect.

Manual II isn't just about food; it's a memoir, a tribute, and a culinary revolution. Each recipe is intertwined with stories of the Dirik family's journey, from their father's arrival in London to the reinvention of the restaurant.

The book follows Mangal II's transformation from a local favorite into a destination restaurant that creatively blends traditional Turkish flavors with contemporary influences. For food lovers, this book offers a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and creativity that have shaped Mangal II into what it is today.

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A Delicious Array of Recipes

The cookbook presents a range of dishes that honor tradition while embracing innovation. It's a culinary journey through 60 diverse recipes, from classic Turkish staples to inventive creations.

Signature dishes like Ezme, Grilled Onion Salad, and their father's iconic lamb kebabs bring traditional flavors to life. Yet, the Dirik brothers push boundaries with unique offerings such as Mackerel in Fried Vine Leaf, Chickpea Fritters with Brown Crab, and Grilled Aubergine with Mushroom Broth and Almonds. Their Tahini Tart with Apple Butterscotch and Cherry Mahlep is a standout, balancing rich flavors with a touch of sweetness.

Ferhat and Sertaç's vision extends beyond innovative dishes. They embrace sustainable practices, using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and maintaining a zero-waste approach.

This philosophy is evident in their cooking, as they incorporate practices like fermenting and carefully curating a wine list with organic options. Their commitment to sustainability and community mirrors their parents' values, showing that Mangal II is not just a restaurant but a socially conscious establishment woven into the fabric of East London.

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Final Thoughts

Manual II: Stories & Recipes is a celebration of culinary tradition, family, and reinvention.

Ferhat and Sertaç have created a collection that appeals not only to fans of Turkish cuisine but to anyone who appreciates thoughtful, innovative cooking. With its stunning visuals, engaging storytelling, and delicious recipes, this cookbook is a heartfelt tribute to the community that surrounds Mangal II and a source of inspiration for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

For anyone seeking to explore Turkish cuisine from a fresh perspective, or for those simply looking to add a meaningful, beautifully crafted book to their collection, Manual II is an essential addition.

This book invites you to step into the world of Mangal II, where flavors, stories, and a passion for food come together in unforgettable harmony.