In Çanakkale, shades of green embrace blue. Famous for its spas and the holy springs of the Orthodox Greeks, Çanakkale is also home to the mythological Mount Ida, a source of beauty and health with its flora.
Its fertile lands are suitable for farming, and animal husbandry is also quite significant in its vicinity. The famous Ezine cheese, which is named after the district where it is produced, is a joy for the taste buds. Dairy products of the highest quality are produced in hygienic conditions in the plentiful dairies in the area.
As a province so wealthy in terms of dairy products, the cuisine has naturally taken shape in this direction. Both desserts and meals are very often enriched with cream, yogurt, cheese, or milk. The foods prepared for the winter and the pastries are impressively varied. In Çanakkale, the sea is at least as generous as the land; different varieties of fish and seafood take their place in the province’s cuisine.
KAÇAMAK
Ingredients
1 cup corn flour, 1¾ cups water, 2 tablespoons butter, grape molasses, lor (fresh white whey cheese, sub. mizithra or ricotta)
PreparationMelt butter in a pan and brown the corn flour. Over low heat, slowly add water and mix continually. When the mixture acquires a purée-like consistency, turn the heat off. Pour grape molasses and cheese on top, and serve.
FRIED PEPPERS STUFFED WITH CREAM AND CHEESE
Ingredients
2 green banana peppers, 2 red banana peppers, 150 g lor (fresh white whey cheese, sub. mizithra or ricotta), 50 g clotted cream, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ cup vegetable oil, 3 eggs, 4 sprigs fresh parsley (pref. flat-leaf/Italian) or mint, salt to taste.
Preparation
Wash the peppers and remove stalks carefully. In a container, mix the cheese with an egg, paprika, finely chopped parsley or mint, and salt. Fill the peppers with this mixture. In a separate cup, beat the two eggs. Heat the oil in a frying pan. Dip the peppers in the beaten eggs and fry in hot oil.
CHEESE HALVAH
Ingredients
250 g dil cheese (sub. string cheese or mozzarella), 1 tablespoon butter, 0.85 cups water, 2 tablespoons flour, 2 cups granulated sugar.
Preparation
In a saucepan, mix sliced cheese with water, crushing with a spoon until it melts. Add flour and sugar, and continue mixing over low heat. When all water is absorbed, remove from heat. Serve when cool.