Geographically Indicated Kınalı Okra Wins Over Food Enthusiasts

At the 9th İzmir GastroFest, held at the Historic Gasworks Factory, Bornova Municipality introduced Bornova Kınalı Okra, the district’s prized product with geographical indication status, to gourmets and festival visitors. Reflecting this year’s “Food & Memory” theme, Bornova’s stand became one of the festival’s most popular attractions, drawing large crowds with its distinctive culinary creations.

Bringing Forgotten Culinary Traditions Back to the Table

Bornova Kınalı Okra, one of Bornova’s most important agricultural and cultural heritage products, was transformed into a series of culinary masterpieces by expert chefs during the festival. Grown from heirloom seeds and harvested using traditional methods, this special local product was presented to visitors in original menus featuring modern gastronomic touches. Tasting events that revived the culinary heritage of the Aegean region once again highlighted the importance of local production and sustainable agriculture.

Mayor Eşki: “We Are Carrying Our Agricultural Heritage into the Future”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that events of this kind play a vital role in ensuring local products receive the recognition they deserve in the world of gastronomy. Mayor Eşki said:

“Bornova Kınalı Okra is not merely an agricultural product; it represents the identity of our land, our past, and our culinary heritage passed down through generations. As Bornova Municipality, we are protecting our heirloom seeds and bringing this unique, geographically indicated product back into production on a stronger footing. Today, we are proud to introduce the efforts of our local producers to the world by combining their hard work with a sustainable approach to cuisine. We remain committed to preserving Bornova’s agricultural heritage and local culinary culture, carrying them into the future, and supporting local development.”

Crowds Flock to Bornova’s Stand

Throughout the festival, held in the enchanting atmosphere of the Historic Gasworks Factory, Bornova Municipality’s stand became a focal point for food enthusiasts and national and international chefs. Hundreds of visitors formed long queues to sample innovative and traditional recipes prepared with Kınalı Okra. Gastronomy professionals emphasized that Bornova Kınalı Okra holds a special place in Türkiye’s culinary culture thanks to its distinctive characteristics and registered quality.