Düzce is a city in the Black Sea Region with a rich and diverse food culture. The cornerstones of the regional cuisine include corn, beans, kale and plenty of seafood. In Düzce cuisine, especially dishes made from corn flour and pastries are at the forefront. Corn bread is a food that is frequently found on the tables of the people of the region and consumed with almost every meal. In addition, "muhlama" (a kind of breakfast prepared with corn flour, butter and cheese) made with corn flour is also very popular.
In Düzce, seafood is served fresh and in a variety of ways, especially in coastal areas such as Akçakoca. Anchovies are a staple of Black Sea cuisine and can be prepared with different cooking methods, including anchovy tava, steamed anchovies and pilaf with anchovies. Another important seafood of the region is bonito. Available in abundance during the fall months, bonito is served grilled or pan-fried.
Vegetable dishes and pickles are also an important part of Düzce cuisine. Vegetables such as black cabbage, sauerkraut and bean dishes are among the main food sources of the people of the region during the cold winter months. In addition, local salads prepared using various herbs and greens are consumed especially in spring and summer. These salads are usually prepared with fresh herbs collected from nature and flavored with olive oil and lemon juice.
Tea as a beverage is an integral part of daily life in Düzce. As in other provinces of the Black Sea Region, fresh tea brewed at all hours of the day is an indispensable accompaniment to conversations and meetings in Düzce. In addition, natural fruit juices and compotes made from the fruits grown in the region are among the preferred drinks to cool off, especially in summer.
Düzce has a rich culinary culture that includes traditional Turkish cuisine as well as local delicacies. Each dish is blended with the historical and cultural texture of the region, offering visitors a rich experience in terms of both visual and palatal pleasure. The preparation of the dishes with fresh and local ingredients is an important feature that reflects the natural and healthy lifestyle of Düzce.