Sakarya cuisine in the context of cultural identity: Assessment of Abhaz cuisine

Throughout history, the issue of identity has always been a problem, and it has manifested itself in different ways. The definition of who we are is given to us as an important layer in the construction of identity. Identity and cultural identity have become the most important factor in the formation of the identity of societies with the concept of memory which is a living process. In this study, culture, cultural identity and eating habits of Abkhazian people living in Sakarya province were discussed. Many different ethnic groups live and live in Sakarya province from past to present. Therefore, Sakarya has a wide range of culinary culture. The Abkhazians are the people of Adygea (Circassian) who have been subjected to forced migration from the North Caucasus to Sakarya. In this context, face-to-face interviews were conducted to reveal the food culture of the Abkhazian people living in Sakarya. The data obtained within the scope of the interviews are presented in the thesis study and information about Abkhaz culinary culture was presented. As a result of these interviews, it was learned that the people of Abkhazia were mainly fed with carbohydrates. In addition, it was found that the food they consume on the basis of protein is generally poultry and sheep meat. In the light of this information, the habits of eating habits of the Abkhazians living in Sakarya today and the present ones have been tried to be presented. The aim of the study is to ensure the recognition of Abkhaz Cuisine, which is a part of the Turkish Cuisine Culture, to bring it into our culinary culture and to enrich the culinary culture. To diversify our products in the field of gastronomy and to reveal the potential of our country in this field. Keywords: Abkhazian cuisine, Cultural identity, Ethnic groups, Gastronomy Sakarya Cuisine.