THE ROLE OF PISTACHIOS AND ITS DERIVATIVES IN THE LOCAL GASTRONOMIC IDENTITY OF GAZIANTEP

Abstract

Turkey is one of the most important pistachios (Pistacia vera L.) producers in the world. Due to its position in Gaziantep's local gastronomic identity, pistachio is one of the rare products known with the province's name within the country's borders. Because it has a long historical background, its place in the economy, and its integration with other social structures, pistachio has reached a level that cannot be imitated in local gastronomy. This study aims to reveal the place and role of pistachio and its derivatives, which is one of its local products, in the development stages of Gaziantep's local gastronomic identity. The study is limited to the administrative borders of Gaziantep. The research data were obtained by observation and interviews during the fieldwork. Media (traditional and social) analyses and the review of primary and secondary sources are also used. Gaziantep has many products and initiatives that pistachios are used as part of the local gastronomic identity, such as pistachio nuts, pistachio baklava, pistachio kadaif, pistachio katmer, pistachio candy, pistachio butter, pistachio cezerye, Gaziantep Pistachio Museum, pistachio sculptures, gastronomy courses and International Pistachio Culture and Art Festival. The place of each element belonging to pistachio in the local gastronomic identity was determined.