Award-Winning Book Receives Great Interest

The book ‘Ege Otları (Aegean Herbs)’ authored by Asst. Prof. Dr. Betül Öztürk from Department of Gastronomy and Culinary Arts, Izmir University of Economics (IUE) and Author Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Uhri has garnered significant attention from readers. The first edition of the book, which was selected as the first place winner in the ‘encyclopedia’ category at the prestigious Gourmand Awards, is completely sold out. Published by IUE Press and expected to contribute significantly to the gastronomy development in the Aegean region, the book’s second edition is eagerly awaited.

Sharing the cultural history of healing herbs in the Aegean and sharing recipes, Öztürk and Uhri spent approximately two years preparing the book. The book titled, ‘Aegean Herbs: The Culture and Recipes of Edible Herbs of the Aegean and Izmir’, marks the first publication of IUE Press in the field of gastronomy and culinary culture.

ATTENDED THE CEREMONY IN SAUDI ARABIA

Öztürk and Uhri were recognized as the best authors in the ‘encyclopedia’ category at the 29th Gourmand World Cookbook Awards held in November. Asst. Prof. Dr. Öztürk attended the ceremony in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and received the award in presence of numerous successful figures in the gastronomy field.

72 DIFFERENT HERBS

Expressing happiness at receiving numerous positive feedback from readers about the book, Öztürk stated, “In our book, we analyzed the influence and cultural history of edible herbs in the Aegean and Izmir cuisine. We provided information about a total of 72 different herbs. We included archaeological, archaeobotanical, linguistic, and etymological data, along with recipes dating back to ancient times and obtained through oral traditions, which can be prepared with these herbs. We aimed to use a simple language that everyone can understand in the book. We also took the photographs of the herbs featured in the book ourselves. The recipes we shared in the book are based on ‘our mothers’ kitchens’. All of this attracted the readers' interest and made a difference. Currently, the first edition of our book is completely sold out. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all readers and everyone who supported us.”