Evaluation of Local Culinary Heritage in Gastronomy Tourism: A Qualitative Study on Van Püşürük Dish

Abstract

which influences cultural life, has been a fundamental component shaping the change and transformation of eating and drinking habits. Today, gastronomy is evaluated together with economic, social, and cultural dynamics such as social interaction, cultural identity, promotion of the local, image, sustainability, and tourism income, along with eating and drinking habits. This multidimensional structure has contributed to gastronomy becoming not only a practice of nutrition but also an element that increases the attractiveness of destinations. In this context, gastronomy has become one of the fundamental components of tourism by playing an important role in destination marketing and in strengthening the destination image. Accordingly, the aim of this study, in which the semi-structured interview method was used, is to contribute to strengthening the gastronomic identity of the province of Van and to support the sustainability of the local culinary culture by introducing Püşürük dish (Püşürük Aşı), one of the traditional delicacies that has begun to be forgotten (historical and cultural place, from whom it was learned, intergenerational transmission, ingredients, preparation, etc.), and to present solution proposals for its integration into gastronomy tourism. The Püşürük dish, whose exact time of emergence is not known, is prepared with ingredients that can be easily obtained. It is consumed particularly in the winter season, as well as in other seasons of the year. The soup is prepared by cutting the dough obtained from flour, water, and salt into thin strips and adding a mixture consisting of minced meat, green lentils, tomato paste, and spices into diluted Van Cacığı [curd cheese]. Although it is prepared and consumed in households by the local people, it is not presented or served in any tourism destination throughout the province. The inclusion of the Püşürük dish in gastronomy tourism will contribute not only to the promotion of the province but also to employment and the development of the local economy.