Smoke and Seasoned Bread

With over 80 recipes, this cookbook is a deep dive into the heart of Turkish cuisine—a love letter to those who cherish food, travel, and the stories that bind them. Though language, culture and flavors are shared, Hasan Semay’s Turkish Cypriot upbringing meant mainland Turkey felt distant and exciting. Arriving on the south coast of Turkey, he travels across mountains to the corners of the country; not only unveiling culinary traditions, but unearthing the very history that flavors them. Along the way, he discovers kebabs that bridge generations, stews that tell tales, breads that warm your soul, and desserts that are sweet escapism—draped in buttery layers of history and dripping with syrup. The result is an honest, unfiltered and meticulously researched blend of recipes, travelog, history & memoir.

Author Biography

Hasan “Has” Semay is a Turkish Cypriot British chef, YouTube and Instagram sensation, and TV presenter. Has was accepted onto the prestigious Jamie Oliver “15” program in 2011 and his relaxed and informative approach to cooking without pretentiousness has won him legions of fans over on his YouTube platform, Sunday Sessions. His debut cookbook, Big Has: HOME is a Sunday Times Bestseller. In 2024, Has became the new judge for UK Young MasterChef.

Liz and Max are the photographic duo Haarala Hamilton specializing in capturing food, people and places. They are two people: Liz, the one with the funny name, is the Haarala; and Max, the one with the funny hair, is the Hamilton.