Dishes you should try in Ardahan Central District: Goose Meat, Ardahan Civil Cheese, Lor Dolması and Hangel (Noodles). This guide also covers the local products to buy and what Ardahan Central District is famous for.
Last updated:
Famous Dishes of Ardahan Central District
-
Goose Meat
Goose meat, Ardahan's best-known delicacy, is prepared by salting and drying geese slaughtered in autumn. In winter it is served as kavurma or cooked in a tandır oven.
-
Ardahan Civil Cheese
Civil cheese made from the milk of animals grazing on the high plateaus is known for its fine, thread-like texture. Eaten fresh or dried, this cheese is a geographically indicated product of Ardahan.
-
Lor Dolması
Prepared by wrapping fresh lor cheese in yufka pastry and baking it, lor dolması is one of the traditional flavours of Ardahan cuisine. It is served drizzled with melted butter and red pepper sauce.
-
Hangel (Noodles)
Prepared by cutting thinly rolled dough into small squares and boiling it, hangel is served with garlicky yoghurt and melted butter poured on top. It is an indispensable dish on Ardahan's winter tables.
What to Buy in Ardahan Central District: Local Products
- Ardahan Honey Honey obtained from the endemic vegetation of the high plateaus is known for its dark colour and intense aroma. Gathered especially from keven and alfalfa flowers, it is the region's most valuable agricultural product.
- Kaşar Cheese Kaşar cheese produced from the milk of animals grazing on Ardahan's high plateaus is known for its yellow colour and distinctive flavour. The variety matured as old kaşar is especially in demand.
- Gravyer Cheese Swiss-type gravyer cheese is produced in Ardahan. Made by traditional methods in the local dairies, gravyer is known for its firm texture and hazelnut aroma.
What Ardahan Central District Is Famous For: Culture and Traditions
-
93 Harbi Heritage
The 1877-78 Russo-Turkish War (93 Harbi) left deep marks on Ardahan's history. After the war, Ardahan remained under Russian rule for 40 years, and Russian architecture from this period has become part of the town's fabric.
-
Caucasian Culture
Because of its location on the Georgian border, Ardahan has been influenced by Caucasian culture. The city is multicultural, with Terekeme Turks, Kurds and communities of Georgian origin living together.
-
Plateau Culture
The people of Ardahan go up to the high plateaus in summer to raise livestock. Plateau festivals, traditional music and cirit games are important parts of this culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I eat in Ardahan Central District?
Ardahan Central District is known for 4 local dishes, above all Goose Meat, Ardahan Civil Cheese, Lor Dolması and Hangel (Noodles). Goose meat, Ardahan's best-known delicacy, is prepared by salting and drying geese slaughtered in autumn. In winter it is served as kavurma or cooked in a tandır oven.
What is Ardahan Central District famous for?
Ardahan Central District is known for Goose Meat, Ardahan Honey and 93 Harbi Heritage. Its best-known sights include Kura River Valley and Yalnızçam Ski Centre.
What to buy in Ardahan Central District?
Local products and souvenirs to buy in Ardahan Central District include Ardahan Honey, Kaşar Cheese and Gravyer Cheese.
Ardahan Central District Travel Guide
- Things to Do in Ardahan Central District 4 places to visit
- What to Eat in Ardahan All the famous dishes of the province
What to Eat in Other Districts of Ardahan
- Çıldır 3 dishes Goose Meat Kavurma, Lake Fish (Carp) and Lor Dolması
- Damal 3 dishes Goose Meat, Hangel and Lor Aşı
- Göle 3 dishes Goose Meat, Hangel and Çiriş Otu Yemeği (Çiriş Herb Dish)
- Hanak 4 dishes Hanak Tel Cheese, Goose Meat and Kesme Soup
- Posof 3 dishes Goose Meat, Erişte (Noodles) and Herbed Cheese