One of the unique flavors of Rize, "muhlama," is now appearing on breakfast tables in other cities across the country besides Rize itself. Muhlama, prepared with cornmeal, butter, and Rize's famous koloti cheese, attracts the attention of both local and foreign tourists with its consistency and taste.
Anchovy is one of the oldest delicacies of Rize. Today, hundreds of different dishes are made with anchovies. At the anchovy festival, hundreds of anchovy products are presented for tasting by famous chefs and gourmets. Plain fried anchovies, anchovies with vegetables, spicy garlic-steamed anchovies, and anchovy bread are among the most well-known anchovy dishes.
Another unique product of Rize cuisine is black cabbage. It has various forms such as black cabbage soup and vurma (a traditional dish). The most popular use of cabbage is in "karalahana sarması" (stuffed cabbage rolls). This delicious dish, prepared by wrapping minced meat with fresh black cabbage leaves grown in the region, is known for being both healthy and tasty. Cornbread made from local corn is also a perfect companion to black cabbage on the table.
Pepeçura, on the other hand, is distributed to people in mini festival programs organized in the region. This healthy dessert made with Rize's famous aromatic grapes and cornmeal is included in the dessert menus of luxury restaurants.
Tea, known as the trademark of Rize, plays a significant role. Rize accounts for 65% of tea production in Turkey. Local restaurants in Rize have added regional dishes to their menus due to the increasing demand for local cuisine. Additionally, various festivals and events promote Rize's gastronomic richness. Renowned gourmet experts and chefs from Turkey participate in these festivals. Visitors have the opportunity to taste unique dishes from Rize's cuisine and discover local products.
Rize's local flavors not only reflect its culinary culture but also enhance its tourism potential. Domestic and foreign tourists who come to Rize get the chance to taste these unique flavors while experiencing an unforgettable journey combining the region's natural beauty and gastronomic delights. Gastronomic tourism is being promoted in Rize.
The interest in Rize's local flavors positively contributes to the local economy of the region. Local producers and restaurants continue to work with great dedication to preserve this valuable heritage.
