The primitive human species that lived in caves over a million years ago began using fire for cooking, primarily to facilitate the chewing process.
However, over the years, humans evolved beyond simply using cooking for this purpose. Their goal became to make food tastier and more enjoyable. They began experimenting with cooking various types of foods, including meats, vegetables, and grains, using different techniques and a variety of seasonings. They even discovered spices that became highly prized and were so valuable that wars were fought over them!
Gradually, with the diversity of environments, cultures, and human tastes, along with the invention of numerous kitchen tools and appliances, food preparation evolved into an art known as the culinary arts. This art has its principles, sciences, books, and techniques that require academic learning.
This is why culinary arts have become a university major for students who aspire to become professional chefs, working in restaurants, hotels, and even television programs. There is a significant difference between those who cook as a hobby and those who have added academic study and intensive experience to their hobby.
Now, the most important question arises: Where can you study culinary arts professionally?
Turkey is the right place. Here, you can study the art of cooking and culinary arts with high quality and exceptional practical training provided by some of the most skilled chefs (Chefs) in Turkey and the world.
Turkey is known for its rich cultural diversity, blending eastern and western characteristics. This unique blend has made Turkish cuisine highly appreciated and accepted by different tastes worldwide.
Turkish cuisine has incorporated dishes from various countries, adding its own special touch. It has also introduced many dishes that gained international fame and popularity.
So, if you aspire to become a professional chef qualified to work in Turkey, Arab countries, and Europe, all you have to do is begin your professional journey by studying culinary arts and cooking in Turkey.
Advantages of studying gastronomy and cooking in Türkiye
Turkey has a rich history in the culinary arts, where food is an integral part of Turkish life, reflecting its deep-rooted history and cultural diversity. Turkey is a global tourist destination, hosting a vast number of restaurants, cafés, and luxurious hotels, leading to the excellence and development of hotel management education in Turkish universities.
Most Turkish universities offer bachelor’s programs and specialized diplomas in culinary arts. You can study culinary arts in Turkey in either Turkish or English, depending on your preference. Turkish universities, especially private ones, have strong infrastructure and high-quality facilities for teaching culinary arts. They invest in well-equipped cooking studios or kitchens with spacious areas and provide all the modern equipment and tools that students may need to apply their learned cooking skills and techniques.
The curricula of culinary arts programs in Turkish universities include the latest international cooking techniques and the secrets of Turkish cuisine, along with some fundamental knowledge about nutrition. These programs are internationally accredited, granting students certificates recognized by major international culinary associations.
Some universities form partnerships with major hotels to train their students, opening up excellent employment opportunities for graduates. Additionally, some universities collaborate with strong global institutions and institutes for teaching culinary arts and cooking.
Information about Turkish cuisine and the most famous Turkish dishes
The Turkish cuisine is known for its diverse range of dishes that cater to the country’s rich cultural diversity. When you visit different cities in Turkey, you’ll be amazed by the wonderful local dishes the Turks have to offer.
Turkish cuisine relies on distinctive spices and sauces and utilizes a variety of cooking techniques. Whether you prefer delicious Eastern cuisine or quick and light Western food, you’ll find all kinds of food available in Turkey.
The Turkish kitchen is rich in delectable dishes, including:
- Kumpir: Baked potatoes filled with various toppings.
- Tantuni: A flavorful meat dish, often served in a wrap.
- Dolma: Stuffed vegetables, typically with rice and minced meat.
- Various types of kebabs, such as Adana kebab, shish kebab, and more.
- Tavuk Tandır: Roasted chicken, marinated and cooked to perfection.
- Kokoreç: A savory dish made from lamb or goat intestines.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup.
- Balık Ekmek: Grilled fish served in bread, often enjoyed by the sea.
- Manti: Turkish dumplings filled with ground meat or cheese, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
And, of course, you mustn’t forget about Turkish coffee, a unique and beloved part of Turkish culture. The cuisine’s diversity and flavors make Turkey a fantastic destination for food enthusiasts from around the world.
Conditions for studying gastronomy and cooking in Türkiye
International students are increasingly choosing private Turkish universities to study culinary arts due to their ease of acceptance, excellent facilities, and advanced educational opportunities they offer to their students.
Here are the key admission requirements for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts at a private university:
- Recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Valid passport.
- Translated and certified high school or secondary education certificate in either English or Turkish, authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the embassy or consulate.
- Translated and authenticated high school transcripts.
- Proficiency certificate in the language of instruction (either English or Turkish), if required. Alternatively, you can opt to study a preparatory year in language.
Please note that the admission rate for this field in private universities typically starts at 55% and may vary depending on the university.
Additionally, various professional diploma programs in culinary arts are available, offering a diverse range of options for aspiring chefs.
Costs of studying culinary arts and cooking in private Turkish universities
Studying in Turkey, in general, is more cost-effective compared to many other European countries. You can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in culinary arts at private universities in Turkey with excellent quality and strong professional preparation for tuition fees starting from $1,800 annually.
Feel free to contact us to register at the best Turkish universities and study culinary arts with excellent quality and affordable tuition fees.
Skills required for those who wish to study culinary arts
becoming a chef or a cook requires a specific set of skills. If you possess these skills, you’ll be more efficient in your profession and better equipped to learn and develop yourself into a creative and outstanding chef. Some of these skills include:
Strong Sense of Taste: An excellent chef must have a well-developed palate to create balanced and flavorful dishes.
Passion for Food: Loving and being passionate about food is essential. It’s this love that drives creativity and innovation in the kitchen.
Communication Skills: Good chefs should be able to communicate effectively with their team members and customers, ensuring clear instructions and customer satisfaction.
Culinary Equipment Proficiency: Proficiency in using various cooking tools and equipment is crucial.
Speed: Working efficiently and quickly is often essential in a busy kitchen.
Multitasking: The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously is a must in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Cleanliness: Maintaining a clean and organized work environment is essential for food safety and efficiency.
Handling Pressure: The ability to work under pressure is vital, especially during busy service times.
Problem-Solving Skills: Being able to quickly and effectively solve problems that arise in the kitchen is crucial.
Precision and Focus: Attention to detail is essential to ensure that dishes are consistently well-prepared.
Accepting Criticism: Being open to constructive criticism and feedback is essential for growth and improvement.
The future career of a chef who graduated from a Turkish university
After graduation, you can work in the largest restaurants and hotels in Turkey and around the world, or create your own restaurant.
You can also complete your graduate studies and teach culinary arts to others.
The job of a professional chef or chef is widely in demand all over the world. If you study the culinary arts in Turkey in a distinctive way and with strong training, and your skills develop and you have sufficient experience, be assured that wherever you go on the face of the earth you can find a job that suits you with good pay or you can even open your own restaurant to serve the most delicious meals that your customers will definitely love.
