Poultry-Based Dishes from Turkey’s Black Sea Region

The Black Sea region of Turkey, known for its lush greens and rich culinary heritage, boasts a variety of traditional poultry-based dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and ingredients. From savory stews to grilled delights, these dishes reflect the local culture and the influence of both land and sea. Here are some must-try poultry dishes from this picturesque region.

1. Kuymak

Though primarily known for its cheese, Kuymak often incorporates shredded chicken or minced poultry for added flavor. This dish is made with cornmeal and is typically served hot, allowing the melted cheese to create a gooey texture that's irresistible. Served alongside fresh bread, Kuymak makes for a hearty breakfast or a delightful appetizer.

2. Tavuk Göğsü

Tavuk Göğsü is a traditional Turkish dessert made with chicken breast and milk, but it’s often infused with flavors like vanilla and citrus. While it might sound unusual to use poultry in a sweet dish, the chicken is cooked until tender, shredded, and then mixed with a sweetened milk base to create a creamy, pudding-like texture. This dish highlights the region’s innovative approach to incorporating poultry into cuisine.

3. Hamsi Tava

Although hamsi, or anchovies, steal the spotlight in this beloved dish, you can often find it enhanced with marinated and sautéed chicken to add depth. Hamsi Tava is a classic Black Sea dish where fresh anchovies are breaded and fried until crispy, sometimes served alongside chicken for a fulfilling meal. This combination boasts a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

4. Fırın Tavuk

Fırın Tavuk, or oven-roasted chicken, is a staple dish enjoyed throughout Turkey, but each region has its own twist. In the Black Sea region, it’s typically marinated in a blend of local spices, garlic, and herbs before being slow-cooked to achieve juicy, flavorful meat. Often served with seasonal vegetables, this dish embodies the richness of the local agricultural landscape.

5. Sarmasi Tavuk

A unique twist on the classic stuffed dish, Sarmasi Tavuk involves wrapping chicken in grape leaves or cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of rice, spices, and sometimes even nuts and dried fruits. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, often garnished with yogurt and fresh herbs before serving, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

6. Tavuk Şiş

Tavuk şiş, or chicken kebabs, is popular in many regions of Turkey, but the Black Sea version stands out with its rich marinades and grilling techniques. The chicken is often marinated in a mix of yogurt, lemon juice, and local spices, then skewered with vegetables and grilled over an open flame. The result is tender, flavorful pieces of chicken that are perfect when served on a bed of rice or in a fresh salad.

The Black Sea region of Turkey is a treasure trove of delicious poultry dishes that are sure to delight any food lover. Each dish tells a story of tradition, local ingredients, and the culinary creativity of its people. When exploring Turkish cuisine, these poultry-based recipes from the Black Sea should not be missed!