Top 5 Trabzon Food: A Guide to Delicious Black Sea Flavors

You know, Trabzon, hugging Turkey’s Black Sea coast, is more than just amazing scenery; that is, it’s seriously a food lover’s dream. It has all kinds of eats worth sinking your teeth into. So, what’s on the menu in this culinary hotspot? I mean, you might think, “What makes Trabzon’s food scene so special?”. That would be its reliance on the fresh produce of the Black Sea and surrounding mountains. Let’s uncover what dishes are must-tries.

1. Hamsili Pilav (Anchovy Rice)

Let’s start with Hamsili Pilav, which is kind of a crazy combination that totally works. I mean, it’s like someone dared to put tiny fish in rice, right? Well, it turns out, embedding those silvery anchovies, or hamsi, in fragrant rice makes the dish surprisingly delicious. That salty kick against the soft, buttery rice creates this explosion of taste you just would not see coming. It’s more or less like getting a surprise upgrade; you walk in expecting one thing and end up with something way better.

Hamsili Pilav is basically Trabzon on a plate. You know, it’s salty, filling and tells you that this place is completely, totally hooked on the sea. Sometimes you might get almonds and currants tossed in, so the meal ends up sweet and savory. Plus, the way they line the pan with hamsi so that it creates a golden crust once the dish gets tipped over? So beautiful, actually!

“Trying Hamsili Pilav is like experiencing Trabzon in one bite. It’s a dish that captures the spirit of the Black Sea – simple, bold, and unforgettable.”

2. Mıhlama (Cheese Fondue)

Alright, next up, Mıhlama! So, picture this: you’re in Trabzon, and it is rather cold, possibly damp. The perfect solution? Oh, very rich, incredibly cheesy, gooey comfort, otherwise named Mıhlama. What exactly is that, even? Think fondue, but, as a matter of fact, turned up a notch with local cheese, butter, and cornmeal. Very simple, though utterly satisfying.

Now, most versions come loaded with a seriously great cheese that gets melty and stretchy in all of the greatest ways. Some also include a poached egg on top, I believe, if they are feeling fancy. And honestly, what could be more decadent than getting to swirl that up into cheese? This is certainly something I will be looking out for whenever I travel there, myself! So, if you have a shot at getting your hands on a steaming-hot skillet of this delightful treat, you just may have to grab it!

“Mıhlama is a hug in a bowl, the cheesy delight offers warmth and contentment with every bite.”

3. Laz Böreği (Custard Pastry)

Moving right along, lets grab some dessert in the shape of Laz Böreği! Basically, forget everything that you know about borek for a minute. Like, this is not cheese or potatoes here. The savory expectations are broken, for this treat packs a sweet, creamy punch! Typically layered with phyllo pastry, this little pastry then reveals a creamy custard in the middle, as a matter of fact. The layers come coated in syrup and butter so, of course, each bite gives way in your mouth.

Okay, I get that this can sound strange if you are used to the usual fillings in the flaky pastries. Really, you might raise an eyebrow if your average Turkish delight only consisted of salty surprises. However, I recommend at least trying out a little bit! That warm spice against rich, thick custard is simply something otherworldly.

“Laz Böreği showcases Trabzon’s sweet side, offering a unique and comforting dessert experience that blends flaky pastry with creamy custard.”

4. Karalahana Çorbası (Black Cabbage Soup)

Want to try something hearty and regional? I would start with Karalahana Çorbası! This one features dark green cabbage which happens to be packed with tons of minerals. More or less, you get to slurp up the soul of Trabzon in a spoon.

Frequently cooked with bits of corn and beans for extra fullness and, you know, sustenance, that warm dish fills tummies up. Okay, so it is possibly not the fanciest dish in the Trabzon food scene, very few soups actually are. This will fill you up after you go strolling on the slopes of Turkey’s hills.

“Karalahana Çorbası is a true taste of Trabzon, offering a hearty and wholesome soup that warms the soul with its rich flavors and simple ingredients.”

5. Sütlaç (Rice Pudding)

Oh, we simply have to have dessert, right? What could be a great example, though? As it turns out, one dish that’s frequently mentioned is Sütlaç. You know, most locations worldwide sport some variety of rice pudding. Turkey goes there too, it seems! So, what exactly makes this Black Sea-style different from others? So, in the tiny village called Hamsiköy in the mountains right near Trabzon. It turns out that this dish gets legendary praise because, you see, of that milk of theirs.

Now, I am not certain on the details there. It’s still that baked, milky pudding with the slightly charred bits. However, people make a habit out of coming here from hundreds of miles out for a taste, you know? Very few places are more unique!

“Hamsiköy Sütlaç is not just rice pudding; it’s a creamy, dreamy experience that showcases the unique flavors of the Black Sea region and the culinary magic of Trabzon.”