In the bustling city of Bursa, located in the northwestern region of Türkiye, there is a local business that has been preserving a unique Ottoman-era dessert for the past 30 years. This delicacy, known as “küllah”, has been a beloved part of Bursa’s rich culinary traditions and has attracted the attention of locals and tourists alike.
Küllah is a traditional Turkish dessert made from a combination of milk, semolina, and sugar. It is cooked over a low heat until it thickens and is then molded into small balls, which are then dipped in a layer of flour. The final step is to deep fry the küllah until it turns a golden brown color, giving it a crispy exterior while still maintaining a soft and creamy center. The küllah is then served with a generous drizzle of honey, adding a touch of sweetness to this already decadent dessert.
The inspiration behind this delectable dessert comes from the owner of the local business, Mr. Osman Gürkan. He inherited the recipe for küllah from his grandfather, who, in turn, received it from his own ancestors who served in the Ottoman army. As a young boy, Mr. Gürkan would often accompany his grandfather to the local markets, where he would watch in awe as he prepared and sold the küllah to eager customers.
Determined to keep this family tradition alive, Mr. Gürkan opened his own shop in Bursa’s bustling Grand Bazaar 30 years ago. His küllah quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists, who were intrigued by its unique taste and historical background. With his dedication and passion, Mr. Gürkan has successfully preserved this dessert through the changing times of Bursa’s culinary scene.
What makes küllah stand out from other Turkish desserts is its texture and taste. The combination of creamy semolina and crispy exterior, along with the touch of honey, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s no wonder that küllah has become a must-try dessert for anyone visiting Bursa.
Moreover, küllah is not just a dessert but also a symbol of cultural heritage. It reflects the rich history and traditions of the Ottoman Empire, which has played a significant role in shaping Türkiye’s culture and cuisine. By preserving this dessert, Mr. Gürkan is also keeping alive the legacy of his ancestors and honoring their contribution to Bursa’s culinary traditions.
Besides being a treat for the taste buds, küllah has also become a source of employment and income for the locals. Mr. Gürkan’s shop has become a popular spot in the Grand Bazaar, attracting tourists who are eager to try this unique dessert. This has not only brought in more business for Mr. Gürkan but has also created job opportunities for the locals, boosting the economy of the city.
In the past few decades, Bursa has undergone significant development and modernization. However, thanks to dedicated individuals like Mr. Gürkan, the city’s cultural heritage and traditions are still being preserved and celebrated. The küllah serves as a reminder of Bursa’s rich past and how it continues to influence the city’s present.
In conclusion, Bursa’s küllah is not just a dessert, but a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage and a testament to the determination and dedication of its people in preserving their traditions. So the next time you visit Bursa, make sure to stop by Mr. Gürkan’s shop and try this unique and delicious Ottoman-era dessert. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll be helping to keep a piece of Bursa’s history alive for generations to come.
