A study on Mamak Ravak Yogurt, a gastronomic product

Yoghurt, a fermented product identified with Turkish cuisine, is consumed alone or as a thickener and flavor enhancer in soups, desserts, appetizers, sauces and main dishes, or diluted and consumed as ayran. Silifke yogurt, Silivri yogurt, Eregli sheep yogurt, Afyon buffalo yogurt, Mamak ravak yogurt and Caycuma buffalo yogurt are some of the yogurt varieties in Turkish culinary culture. These yogurt varieties are named according to the type of livestock from which the milk is obtained, the production method, storage conditions and consumption status and are associated with the regions they belong to. Ankara, the capital of Turkey and located in the center of Anatolian geography, is one of the important cities reflecting Turkish culinary culture. Mamak ravak yogurt, the geographically marked product of Ankara regional cuisine, is a registered yogurt made with local methods. The efficient and effective use of geographical indications is important for the formation of gastronomic identity, protection and promotion of local products. In this context, the aim of the research is to elaborate the characteristics that distinguish Mamak ravak yogurt, which is produced with yeast obtained from milk fat, from other yogurts, to obtain information on its traditional production and to create recipes for dishes where yogurt is used as an ingredient. The research data were obtained through face-to-face interviews with nine participants who had information about the production of ravak yogurt and its characteristics in the local culinary culture. In line with the data obtained, the importance of ravak yogurt, its use and consumption in the culinary culture, such as its characteristics in all aspects were tried to be revealed and the traditional production stages were detailed. The distinctive features of Mamak ravak yogurt can be described as its high fat content, thick consistency, and the unique production and fermentation processes it undergoes. The high levels of dry matter and fat content in the yogurt, along with its thick consistency, can be attributed to the use of only the creamy part of the milk in the yogurt-making process. It was stated that ravak yogurt is used as the main ingredient in the production of yogurt dough and white soup, which are among the traditional dishes, as well as butter and tarhana production in the region, and it is consumed for breakfast together with local sourdough bread. As a result, it is thought that ravak yogurt, which has an important place in the local cuisine culture of Ankara, should be evaluated and contribute to the tourism, economy and promotion of the region.