Metro TurkeyIn the ninth stop of its "Following the Local" project, launched to ensure the sustainability of local products that grow in our region and make us who we are, and to highlight products with registered geographical indications, Kırkağaç Melon, whose story it follows, was brought together with Boğaziçi Bluefish in Istanbul. The unique flavor of Boğaziçi Bluefish, the first product whose story was accompanied on the "Following the Local" journey, was once again remembered, while Kırkağaç Melon, distinguished by its aroma and flavor, enriched the menu with inspiring recipes.
Pınar Özistanbullu Demir: “Geographical Indications Provide Lifeline to Local Production”
Pınar Özistanbullu Demir, Corporate Communications, Events, and Sponsorship Manager at Metro Turkey, emphasized the importance of geographical indications in economic, sectoral, social, and local development, stating: “Geographical indications not only certify the quality and authenticity of a product; they are also important tools that strengthen the local economy, preserve cultural heritage, and support sustainable production practices. Kırkağaç Melon and Boğaziçi Bluefish are concrete examples of these values. These products provide economic strength to local producers and form the cornerstone of our gastronomic richness. At Metro Turkey, we are implementing numerous projects to increase the visibility of products with registered geographical indications and carry these values into the future. We not only sell them, but also consider it our duty to support producers in every way. We will continue our efforts to ensure that these important products, which are the lifeblood of both production and development, survive and come to life again on our tables with the inspiring recipes of our chefs.”
Chef Umut Karakuş: “Local Materials Are the Inspiration for Our Creativity”
Located at the Kırkağaç stop of the On the Trail of the Local project Chief Umut KarakuşAt the special event that brought melon and Boğaziçi Bluefish together, he said, “Local ingredients aren't just a product for us; they're also a source of inspiration for our creativity. By combining the sweet refreshment of Kırkağaç Melon with the strong character of Boğaziçi Bluefish, we've both respected traditional culinary traditions and built a brand new narrative with modern techniques. Our goal was to play with the melon's flavor in every dish, demonstrating that it's not just a sweet fruit but an ingredient that can take on completely different identities when transformed with different techniques. I'm delighted to be a part of the "Following the Local" project, which I find invaluable in bringing the producer's labor to the plate and passing on the values of our cuisine to future generations.”
As part of Metro Türkiye's "Following the Local" project, two valuable geographically indicated products, one born in our fertile soil and the other in the waters of our unique Bosphorus, were brought to the table with Chef Umut Karakuş's creative touches. Kırkağaç Melon stood out in dishes featuring contemporary techniques, including Yedikule orchards salad, herb pita, Bergama tulum (Turkish Tulum) pairing, and firik keşkek (a type of Turkish firik keşkek) and pudding. Alternative uses of Kırkağaç Melon, such as pickles, marmalade, and sour sauce, aimed to inspire culinary inspiration. Baked Boğaziçi Bluefish, reinterpreted with Giresun hazelnuts, basil, and artichoke hearts, was met with great enthusiasm by the attendees.
Source: HORECA Trend and Metro Turkey
