A COLOR OF IZMIR CUISINE, COLORFUL LIKE A PEACOCK: LEVANTINE FOOD CULTURE

Abstract

Having a history of about 5000 years, İzmir bears the traces of the civilizations it hosts. These traces manifest themselves in many ways, especially in Izmir cuisine. Traces of civilizations, nations, communities, and ethnic groups create a riot of colors in Izmir cuisine. Levantine cuisine is one of the cuisines that adds color and enriches Izmir cuisine. The aim of this study is to provide information about the Levantine food culture and to reveal the importance of the Levantine food culture for Izmir cuisine. In the research; Literature review and document analysis methods were used to collect data. At the end of the study; Levant/ine/ism words and concepts are explained in all aspects, information about Levantine food culture and food names and recipes from Levantine cuisine is included. In addition, it is emphasized that the Levantine food culture can contribute to İzmir, İzmir cuisine, and gastronomy tourism. With these results; It is understood that Levantine food culture and cuisine is and should be an important part / color of Izmir / Aegean cuisine, but this is still not aware of it. It has been suggested that steps should be taken to raise awareness on this issue and to prevent the loss of Levantine food culture and cuisine and to bring it into gastronomy tourism.