FOOD SPEAKS WHERE WORDS FALL SHORT
The leading flavors of Ukrainian cuisine were showcased at a special evening organized by the Embassy of Ukraine in Ankara. The menu, prepared by Ukrainian Ambassador Nariman Dzhelialov’s wife, Leviza Dzhelialova, featured traditional dishes such as borscht, katlama, yantyk, çibörek, Kiev-style meatballs, and vareniki. Ambassador Dzhelialov emphasized that national dishes tell the story of a people and their traditions better than thousands of words.
M. FERHAT YÜKSEL
At the reception hosted by the Embassy of Ukraine at the Sheraton Hotel, Ukrainian flavors were presented to the guests. The evening brought together several ambassadors, business figures, and other distinguished invitees. The menu was jointly prepared by Leviza Dzhelialova and the hotel’s executive chef, Zeki Açıköz.
THE WAY TO A MAN’S HEART IS THROUGH HIS STOMACH
Ambassador Nariman Dzhelialov, noting that national dishes express a people and their traditions better than words, said in his speech:
“In Ukraine, we say: ‘The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’ However, when it comes to Ukrainian cuisine, this proverb takes on a broader meaning. Our dishes can open the way to everyone’s heart, regardless of gender, age, or culture.”
RESPECT FOR TURKISH CUISINE
Highlighting that Türkiye and Ukraine are also connected through their culinary culture, the ambassador stated:
“Ukraine and Türkiye have long been bound by deep historical and cultural ties. Today, we strengthen these ties with warmth, friendship, and cherished memories shared around the Ukrainian table. I know how proud Turks are of their cuisine. Thanks to your strong culinary heritage, kebab can be found from France to Japan. This is truly worthy of respect. But tonight, we invite you on a small journey to Ukraine. On our table today, there was the soul of Ukraine and the heart of Türkiye. This was not just a meal, but a part of our national identity.”
Ambassador Dzhelialov also underlined that borscht, which has been included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, is a symbol of hospitality and warmth for Ukraine.
CUISINE REFLECTS CULTURE
Leviza Dzhelialova, who prepared the menu together with chef Zeki Açıköz, said in her remarks:
“I wanted to invite you into the world of Ukrainian culture through food, flavors, and atmosphere. Because cuisine is not just about gastronomy, it also reflects history, traditions, values, and the soul of the people. This evening, I wanted you not only to taste delicious dishes, but also to feel the richness of our culture, our traditions, and a warmth and closeness to Ukraine imbued with the special spirit of Crimea, an inseparable part of our homeland.”
