The Anniversary Tatar Cuisine Festival-Contest “Tuk-Tamak,” dedicated to the memory of Yunus Akhmetzyanov, was a vibrant and unforgettable celebration that brought together enthusiasts of Tatar culture and cuisine.
Held at the House of Tatar Culture, the event was more than just a culinary contest—it highlighted the importance of family traditions, home gatherings, and the essence of Tatar heritage.
Culinary Masterpieces
The competition featured authentic masterpieces of Tatar cuisine, including qistiby, chak-chak, tutyrma, balish, echpochmak, and gubadiya. These dishes not only offer delightful flavors but also preserve the centuries-old culinary traditions of the Tatar people.
Participants, from diverse backgrounds, demonstrated their culinary mastery and heartfelt appreciation for Tatar cuisine. The jury evaluated the dishes based on:
- Authenticity of the recipe
- Use of traditional ingredients
- Presentation and aesthetics
- Cooking techniques
- Willingness to share the recipe
Jury Panel
The jury members had the difficult but honorable task of selecting the winners. The panel included:
- Rena Tsaturyan – Consultant at the Ministry of Culture of the Novosibirsk Region
- Amir Gimaidyslamovich Gareev – President of the “RTNKANO” Public Organization
- Elza Ildusovna Kochetova – Member of the Council of “RTNKANO”
- Nasima Goenerovna Babkina – Head of the “Ak Kalpak” Women’s Organization (Kolyvansky District), Member of the Committee of Families of Homeland Warriors
- Farid Mavlyutov – Soloist of the “Duslar” Vocal Ensemble and Winner of Last Year’s Competition
- Ravza Shamilyevna Tikhomirova – Director of GBUK NSO “NOTKC” and Chair of the Jury
Participation of Young Chefs
Children also took part in the competition, preparing homemade dishes either independently or with the help of their parents.
Grand Prize Winner
The prestigious Grand Prize went to “Kaz Burany,” a dish masterfully prepared by Minnégül Abdrashitova from Kuybyshevsky District.
Concert & Cultural Activities
The festival featured a vibrant concert program, showcasing performances by soloists from across the region and artists from the Tatar Cultural Center.
Guests also participated in a quiz dedicated to the life of Yunus Akhmetzyanov, prepared by Victoria Kuptsova, Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper “Novosibirsk Tatarlary.” Winners received special edition calendars featuring Tatar recipes.
A True Celebration of Taste and Culture
Following the awards ceremony, guests had the opportunity to explore the exhibition of competition dishes, indulging in their rich flavors and cultural significance.
More than just a contest, the event turned into a true celebration of taste and tradition, honoring the rich culinary heritage of the Tatar people.
Source: Novosibirsk Tatars
