The chocolate referred to as “Dubai Chocolate,” which has become widely known in Turkey under this name, has been a topic of discussion recently. Experts are raising objections, claiming that most of the ingredients used are specific to Turkey and part of traditional Turkish culinary culture.
Food Engineer Yeşim Tekin, who has been highlighting that the product marketed as Dubai Chocolate is, in fact, inspired by Turkish baklava and combined with kadayif, pistachio, and tahini produced in Turkey, argues that it is incorrect to present it as a Dubai product. She emphasized that it has long been a product in production, and calling it “Dubai Chocolate” is misleading.
Food Engineer Yeşim Tekin, who is experienced in traditional chocolate production, reminded that many unique flavors specific to Turkish cuisine have been claimed by other countries over time. She said, “We must protect our culture, traditions, and the core elements of our culinary culture. While chocolate is produced worldwide, flavors like kadayif and baklava have been passed down from the Ottoman era to the present. Calling chocolate made with tahini and pistachio inspired by baklava ‘Dubai Chocolate’ would be an injustice to our culinary culture.”
Tekin also pointed out that even people living in Dubai have never heard of “Dubai Chocolate,” even though the name has become popular in Turkey. She provided the following information:
“Our country has a rich history of special flavors and a significant culinary culture. Many of our flavors have been adopted by other national cuisines. We should not forget this and must defend our cuisine and culinary traditions. When we started chocolate production, we aimed for traditional chocolate. We found that the best pistachios, almonds, dried figs, and grapes are our products. When combined with traditional methods, incredible products emerge. Although the intention may not be malicious, trying to present these products as produced by another country damages our culinary culture and core values.”
In a similar vein, Tekin reminded that Turkish Delight, which has been present in Anatolia since the 15th century and has gained fame worldwide as Turkish Delight, is also originally from Turkey. She stated, “Just like Turkish Delight, which comes in many varieties such as mint and rose, baklava and kadayif, even when covered in chocolate, are still products of our cuisine.”
Tekin also addressed the price aspect of the product. She pointed out that when marketed as a Dubai product, the price of this item increases, which makes it less accessible, especially for children who are curious about and fond of it.