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Türkiye’s latest culinary star: Erzincan rice pudding gains geographical indication

One of Erzincan’s signature delicacies, Erzincan Rice Pudding, has been officially certified by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. Türkiye, March 12, 2026. (Erzincan Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry/ AA Photo)
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One of Erzincan’s signature delicacies, Erzincan Rice Pudding, has been officially certified by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. Türkiye, March 12, 2026. (Erzincan Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry/ AA Photo)
March 13, 2026 10:40 AM GMT+03:00

A beloved dessert from eastern Türkiye has earned national recognition. Erzincan Sutlaci, a unique regional take on Türkiye’s famous rice pudding, has been officially registered with a geographical indication by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, securing its place among the country’s protected culinary treasures.

A sweet symbol of Erzincan

Known for its creamy and rich flavor, Erzincan’s signature rice pudding is far from ordinary. While sutlac is widely enjoyed across Türkiye, the Erzincan version offers a distinctive twist that has captured the attention of food lovers.

The dessert is traditionally baked in the oven until its top turns golden, then served together with 'kesme kadayif', another regional specialty made from thin strands of pastry. The combination creates a contrast of textures: creamy, slightly caramelized rice pudding paired with crisp, syrupy kadayif.

The famous Erzincan Rice Pudding, prepared with local milk and traditional methods. Türkiye, March 12, 2026. (Erzincan Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry/ AA Photo)
The famous Erzincan Rice Pudding, prepared with local milk and traditional methods. Türkiye, March 12, 2026. (Erzincan Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry/ AA Photo)

Rice pudding traditions across Türkiye

Rice pudding is widely prepared throughout Türkiye, and many regions have developed their own distinctive variations:

  • Firin Rice Pudding – The most famous version, baked in clay dishes until the surface caramelizes.
  • Hamsikoy Rice Pudding – A well-known specialty from Hamsikoy in the Trabzon region, made with local mountain milk and often without starch.
  • Atom Rice Pudding – A richer variation found in eastern Anatolia, sometimes including additional toppings and thicker consistency.
  • Hazelnut Rice Pudding – Rice pudding topped with roasted hazelnuts, common in the Black Sea region.
  • Mastic Rice Pudding – A version flavored with mastic gum, popular in western coastal areas such as Izmir.

These regional adaptations demonstrate how a simple dessert made from milk, rice, and sugar can evolve into numerous local specialties across the country.

March 13, 2026 10:41 AM GMT+03:00
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