What is the name of the Turkish burger commonly called a wet burger?

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The Turkish burger commonly called a wet burger is the islak hamburger.

The islak hamburger is a small burger associated especially with Istanbul. Its beef patty is placed in a soft bun covered with a tomato-based sauce, then kept warm in a humid or enclosed environment. The moisture softens the bun and gives the sandwich its characteristic “wet” texture.

The word “ıslak” means “wet” in Turkish, while “hamburger” identifies the sandwich form. It is often eaten as a quick late-night snack, particularly around busy central areas of Istanbul. The burger is generally smaller and softer than the standard American fast-food hamburger.

The dish is sometimes mistaken for a normal burger served with extra sauce. Its defining feature is that the sauce is applied before holding or steaming, allowing it to soak into the bun. Recipes and fillings vary, but the sauced, softened bun is the central characteristic.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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