Rize Bagel (Rize Simidi) is a distinctive traditional bagel from the Rize region, cherished for its unique preparation method, unsweetened yet subtly rich flavor, and cultural significance. With a history dating back to before the 1930s, Rize Bagel holds a special place in the culinary heritage of Rize, showcasing the region's creativity in utilizing local ingredients and techniques.

Distinctive Features

Unique Ingredients:
Rize Bagel is crafted with simple yet carefully selected ingredients that contribute to its unique taste and texture:

• Flour, Yeast, Salt, and Water: The foundation of the dough is a combination of these essential ingredients.
• Aromatic Black Grape Molasses: The defining feature of Rize Bagel is its coating in molasses made from locally grown aromatic black grapes. This molasses provides a natural caramelization during baking, giving the bagel its signature golden-brown crust and subtle sweetness.

Susam-Free Preparation:
Unlike most other bagels or simit varieties in Turkey, Rize Bagel is made without sesame seeds. This distinction highlights its dense, chewy texture and allows the flavor of the molasses to shine.

Traditional Preparation Techniques:
Rize Bagel is crafted using time-honored methods that are deeply rooted in the region’s culinary traditions:

1. Molasses Coating: The dough is dipped in aromatic black grape molasses before baking. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures even cooking, giving the bagel a glossy, golden-brown crust.
2. Boiling the Dough: Before baking, the dough is briefly boiled, a technique that gives the Rize Bagel its distinctive dense and chewy texture.
3. Resting on Wooden Boards: The bagels are rested on "pasa," traditional wooden boards made from chestnut or pine trees. This step adds an artisanal touch and connects the preparation process to the natural resources of the region.

Cultural and Historical Significance:
Rize Bagel has been a beloved staple of Rize's cuisine for nearly a century, with its origins rooted in the region’s unique culinary practices. It reflects the ingenuity of local bakers who incorporated the abundant black grapes of the area into their recipes, creating a product that is both practical and flavorful. The traditional preparation methods, including the use of natural wooden boards and molasses, have been passed down through generations, preserving the authenticity of this cherished specialty.

Why Rize Bagel is Unique:

• The use of local black grape molasses provides a distinct flavor and golden crust that sets it apart from other bagels or simit varieties.
• The absence of sesame seeds allows the molasses flavor to stand out, giving the bagel a unique identity.
• Boiling the dough before baking results in a dense, chewy texture that is both satisfying and memorable.
• The traditional resting process on chestnut or pine wooden boards adds a connection to the natural environment of Rize.

A Culinary Symbol of Rize:
Rize Bagel is more than a regional food; it is a cultural symbol that represents the resourcefulness and culinary artistry of the Rize region. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item, a snack, or paired with local tea, it offers a taste of Rize’s rich culinary heritage.

For visitors exploring the Black Sea region, Rize Bagel is a must-try delicacy that encapsulates the flavors, traditions, and history of the area. Its distinctive preparation, authentic taste, and deep cultural roots make it a standout among Turkey’s geographically indicated products.