Kebab as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Kebab is absolutely in that category. The subtly sweet and aromatic quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. Turkish red pepper paste does work that no substitute can replicate.

the meze tradition of small shared dishes predates the main course. There's something about the a traditional Ottoman-style restaurant context that reinforces the comfort effect. çay black tea alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.