Samsun, a vibrant city on Turkey's northern coast along the Black Sea, is not only known for its historical significance but also for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with an abundance of fresh seafood, while also reflecting the agricultural wealth of the region. Samsun’s food culture is deeply rooted in Turkish traditions, yet it has its own unique flavors and specialties that make it stand out. Whether you're a lover of seafood, savory pastries, or traditional Turkish dishes, Samsun offers a wide array of tantalizing options that are sure to satisfy any palate. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the most popular and beloved foods in Samsun.

1. Samsun Pide (Bafra Pide)

One of the most iconic dishes of Samsun is pide, a type of Turkish flatbread that is often referred to as Turkish pizza. While pide is popular throughout Turkey, Samsun is particularly famous for its unique style known as Bafra Pide. This version originates from the Bafra district of Samsun and is distinguished by its elongated, boat-shaped crust and a variety of delicious toppings.

Bafra pide can be found all over the city, and it comes in several varieties. Some of the most popular include minced meat (kıymalı), cheese (peynirli), mixed (karışık), and egg-topped pide (yumurtalı). What sets Samsun pide apart is its thin, crispy crust and the generous use of high-quality local ingredients. The dough is rolled out thin, placed in a wood-fired oven, and baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior.

For locals and visitors alike, a visit to one of Samsun’s many pide restaurants is a must. The dish is often served with a side of fresh salad and ayran, a traditional Turkish yogurt drink that complements the savory flavors of the pide.

2. Kaz Tiriti (Goose Tirit)

Kaz tiriti, or goose tirit, is another traditional dish that has deep roots in Samsun’s culinary heritage. This dish is particularly popular in the rural areas surrounding the city, especially in the Bafra and Vezirköprü districts, where goose farming is common.

Kaz tiriti is a hearty and flavorful dish made with roasted goose served over crispy bread (often flatbread) that has been soaked in the goose’s broth. The dish is typically garnished with herbs and occasionally served with rice or bulgur on the side. The use of goose meat, which has a rich and distinctive flavor, makes this dish a special treat, particularly during the colder months and festive occasions.

Its preparation is a labor of love, often involving slow-roasting the goose to ensure the meat is tender and the skin is perfectly crispy. The bread underneath absorbs the goose’s flavorful juices, creating a savory and satisfying meal. Kaz tiriti is a true reflection of Samsun’s rural traditions and agricultural abundance.

3. Hamsi Tava (Fried Anchovies)

As a coastal city, Samsun has a strong tradition of seafood, and one of the most beloved dishes is hamsi tava, or fried anchovies. Anchovies, or hamsi, are a staple of the Black Sea region, and they are prepared in a variety of ways, but frying them is by far the most popular method in Samsun.

Hamsi tava is made by coating fresh anchovies in flour and then frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. The dish is typically served with a side of salad, lemon wedges, and bread. While simple in preparation, the freshness of the fish and the crispy texture make it incredibly flavorful. It’s a dish that is enjoyed by locals, especially during the hamsi fishing season, which runs from late autumn to early spring.

In Samsun, hamsi is more than just a food item—it’s a cultural icon. The city celebrates the arrival of the hamsi season with festivals and events, and many restaurants offer special menus dedicated to this beloved fish. If you’re visiting Samsun during the season, trying hamsi tava is an absolute must.

4. Nokul

Nokul is a type of pastry that is popular throughout the Black Sea region, but it has a special place in Samsun's food culture. This flaky, rolled pastry can be filled with a variety of ingredients, both sweet and savory.

The savory version of nokul is typically filled with ingredients such as cheese, minced meat, or spinach. The sweet version, on the other hand, is filled with sugar, raisins, and walnuts. It’s often enjoyed with tea and is a popular snack or breakfast item.

Nokul is made by rolling out a thin layer of dough, adding the filling, and then rolling it into a spiral shape. It’s then baked until golden and crispy. The result is a light and flaky pastry that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you prefer the sweet or savory version, nokul is a delicious way to experience Samsun’s traditional baking techniques.

5. Mısır Ekmeği (Cornbread)

A staple in many Black Sea kitchens, mısır ekmeği, or cornbread, is a simple yet flavorful side dish that accompanies many meals in Samsun. Corn has long been a key ingredient in the region’s cuisine due to the favorable climate for growing it. Cornbread in Samsun is different from the sweet versions found in other parts of the world; it’s typically savory, dense, and slightly crumbly.

Mısır ekmeği is often served alongside dishes like soups, stews, and roasted meats. It’s particularly popular with seafood dishes, such as hamsi tava, where the cornbread’s hearty texture complements the crispiness of the fried fish. It’s also a common accompaniment to vegetable dishes and dips, making it a versatile and beloved part of Samsun’s culinary landscape.

6. Kuru Fasulye (Stewed Beans)

Kuru fasulye, or stewed white beans, is a classic Turkish dish that holds a special place in Samsun’s food culture. While it’s a simple dish made from beans, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes meat, it’s deeply comforting and flavorful. In Samsun, kuru fasulye is often enjoyed with pilav (rice) and a side of pickles, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Kuru fasulye can be found in homes and restaurants throughout Samsun, and while it’s commonly eaten as a main dish, it’s also served as a side to complement larger meals. The dish is especially popular during the colder months, providing warmth and sustenance.

7. Samsun Simidi (Samsun Bagel)

While simit is a popular street food found throughout Turkey, Samsun simidi has its own distinctive style that sets it apart. This local version of the beloved Turkish bagel is slightly larger and denser, with a more intense flavor due to its unique dough recipe and baking methods.

Samsun simidi is often coated with a mixture of water and molasses before being baked, giving it a slightly sweet, caramelized crust. It’s commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day, often paired with tea or cheese. If you’re exploring Samsun’s streets, you’ll notice simit vendors selling these delicious bagels, making them an easy and tasty snack on the go.

Conclusion

Samsun’s rich culinary traditions offer a delightful journey into the flavors and history of Turkey’s Black Sea region. From the crispy, savory pide and the hearty kaz tiriti to the sweet, flaky nokul and the ever-popular hamsi tava, the food in Samsun reflects both the bounty of the sea and the agricultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re dining in a traditional restaurant or sampling street food from a local vendor, you’re guaranteed to experience the authentic tastes of Samsun’s vibrant food culture.

For food lovers, a visit to Samsun is a chance to discover unique regional dishes that are deeply rooted in Turkish traditions. The city’s cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients, time-honored recipes, and the welcoming hospitality of its people. Whether you’re savoring the delicate flavors of freshly caught hamsi or indulging in a slice of crispy Bafra pide, Samsun’s culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.