The Tradition of Askıda Ekmek in Turkey
“Suspended Bread,” known as “Askıda Ekmek” in Turkish, is a heartwarming and culturally significant tradition in Turkey. This practice reflects the country’s sense of community, compassion, and commitment to minimizing food waste.
The concept of Askıda Ekmek involves hanging extra loaves of bread outside one’s home or at designated public places for those in need. This gesture is essentially an act of sharing with neighbors who may be facing financial difficulties or are simply unable to afford food. Today, you can also find ‘bread buckets’ conveniently placed on nearly every street corner, where people deposit their pieces of bread regularly.
It’s essential to note that throwing away bread is generally frowned upon in Turkish culture. Bread is considered a sacred and indispensable part of Turkish cuisine, and it symbolizes sustenance and the sharing of a meal. The tradition of Askıda Ekmek is a way to counteract bread waste and ensure that even the less fortunate can access this vital food source.
Encapsulating the values of sharing, empathy, and communal responsibility deeply ingrained in Turkish society –makes it a heartwarming and meaningful tradition.
