Baklava as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Baklava is absolutely in that category. The warmly spiced and complex quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. bulgur wheat does work that no substitute can replicate.

the meze tradition of small shared dishes predates the main course. There's something about the a kebab restaurant at lunchtime context that reinforces the comfort effect. raki anise spirit alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.