Amasya, a city rich in history and culture, is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty and ancient heritage but also for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Nestled in northern Turkey, Amasya’s culinary traditions have been shaped over centuries, blending the best of Turkish, Ottoman, and regional flavors. From hearty stews to sweet treats, the food in Amasya offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and agricultural abundance. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most popular foods in Amasya that every visitor should try.

One of the most iconic dishes of Amasya is Amasya çöreği, a savory pastry made from a thick dough filled with a special mixture of walnuts, cinnamon, and spices such as clove and mahlep (a fragrant spice made from ground cherry seeds). This traditional pastry is baked until golden brown, and its aroma fills the streets of Amasya, especially during festivals and holidays. Amasya çöreği is often enjoyed with tea and is a favorite snack among locals. The combination of crunchy walnuts and warm spices makes it a unique and flavorful treat that reflects the region’s blend of sweet and savory tastes.

Another popular dish in Amasya is keşkek, which is a traditional Turkish dish commonly served at weddings, celebrations, and special occasions. Keşkek is made from wheat (typically cracked wheat or whole wheat) and meat, usually lamb or chicken, that is slow-cooked for hours until the ingredients melt into a creamy, hearty stew. The dish is seasoned with butter and sometimes topped with a sprinkle of ground red pepper or cinnamon. Keşkek holds a special place in Amasya’s culinary heritage, and its preparation is often a communal effort where family and friends gather to cook large quantities for celebrations. The texture is soft and comforting, making it a beloved dish that is both filling and flavorful.

Amasya is also famous for its apples, which are considered some of the best in Turkey. The city’s climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for growing sweet, juicy apples, and Amasya apples have become a symbol of the city. These apples are known for their distinctive size, color, and flavor, and they are often enjoyed fresh, used in desserts, or made into preserves and jams. Apple-based sweets, such as Amasya elması tatlısı (Amasya apple dessert), are a local delicacy where the apples are poached in syrup and served with clotted cream or ice cream. A bite into an Amasya apple is refreshing and crisp, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

In addition to its well-known apples, Amasya is also known for its bakla dolması, a dish made from broad beans stuffed with rice, onions, and herbs. The beans are cooked slowly in olive oil until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together. This dish is often served cold as a meze (appetizer) and is a great example of Amasya’s use of fresh, local ingredients. The simplicity of bakla dolması highlights the natural flavors of the beans and herbs, making it a light and refreshing option for those looking to try something different.

Another staple of Amasya’s cuisine is etli bamya, which translates to "okra with meat." In this dish, fresh okra is cooked with lamb or beef in a rich tomato-based sauce, often with the addition of onions, garlic, and lemon juice to balance the flavors. The okra becomes tender as it absorbs the flavors of the meat and sauce, creating a deliciously tangy and savory stew. Etli bamya is typically served with rice or fresh bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is especially popular during the summer months when okra is in season, and it offers a wonderful taste of Amasya’s agricultural bounty.

For those with a sweet tooth, Amasya offers a variety of traditional Turkish desserts, with one of the most famous being höşmerim. This dessert is made from semolina, butter, sugar, and milk, and is often flavored with vanilla or rose water. It has a soft, pudding-like texture and is commonly served warm, sometimes topped with nuts or cinnamon. Höşmerim is a comforting dessert that is simple yet rich in flavor, making it a popular choice at the end of a meal.

Amasya tava is another local favorite, especially for those who enjoy rich, savory dishes. This dish consists of lamb or beef that is slow-cooked in a clay pot with tomatoes, green peppers, onions, and garlic. The meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it absorbs the juices from the vegetables, and the dish is often served with rice or flatbread. The slow cooking process gives Amasya tava a deep, rich flavor that is comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect meal for colder days or special occasions.

Amasya’s cuisine also includes several pide varieties, which are a type of Turkish flatbread often topped with ingredients like cheese, minced meat, or vegetables. Amasya pide is typically larger and thinner than other regional variants, and it is baked until the edges are crispy and golden. This dish is often enjoyed as a quick meal or snack, and it’s a favorite among locals for its simplicity and deliciousness.

Finally, no trip to Amasya would be complete without tasting the local turşu, or pickles. Amasya is known for its variety of pickled vegetables, including cucumbers, cabbage, and beets. These pickles are typically served as a side dish or appetizer and are prized for their tangy, salty flavor. Pickling is a tradition in Amasya, and the region’s rich agricultural resources provide an abundance of fresh produce perfect for making turşu.

In conclusion, Amasya’s cuisine is a reflection of the city’s rich history, agricultural abundance, and traditional Turkish flavors. From savory pastries like Amasya çöreği to hearty stews like keşkek, the food in Amasya offers visitors a chance to explore the local culture through its delicious and diverse dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a simple meal of etli bamya or indulging in a sweet treat like höşmerim, Amasya’s culinary delights are sure to leave a lasting impression. With its combination of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, Amasya is a destination that every food lover should experience.