“Turkistan Table” Introduced in Astana

The Astana leg of the “Turkish Cuisine from the Ancestral Homeland to Anatolia” events—organized to showcase the rich gastronomic heritage of Turkish cuisine in Astana, Bishkek, and Tashkent—was successfully completed.

As part of the project initiated by the Bursa Maturation Institute and supported by Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), a themed dinner titled “Gastronomic Heritage of the Turks: From Nomads to Gourmets” was held in Astana.

The event brought together diplomats, bureaucrats, business leaders, opinion leaders, researchers, and members of the press.

Strengthening cultural ties through Turkish cuisine

Nilüfer Karakoç, Director of the Bursa Maturation Institute, shared the following remarks in her speech at the event:

“With this project, we aim to highlight the historical evolution of Turkish cuisine and the influence of the nomadic lifestyle on gastronomy. At the same time, we seek to revitalize Turkish culinary traditions across the Turkestan region, revive forgotten dishes, and preserve our shared gastronomic heritage. Strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Türkiye, while fostering greater interaction between the two nations through gastronomy, remains one of our primary goals.”

A special dinner showcasing Kazakh and Turkish cuisine

As part of the event, guests were treated to a selection of five exquisite dishes inspired by Kazakh and Turkish culinary traditions, prepared by Turkish Chef Korhan Süren and Kazakh Chef Manas Skak. The gastronomic experience concluded with a special concert featuring Kazakh and Turkish music.

Supported by TİKA, this initiative aims to celebrate the culinary heritage of the Turkestan region and preserve it for future generations. The program will continue in Bishkek and Tashkent in the coming months.