Turkish households prepare winter food stocks amid rising costs

In various regions of Turkey, including Diyarbakır and Düzce, residents have begun traditional preparations for the winter season by making homemade preserves and canned goods.

In Diyarbakır, the focus has shifted from drying vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes to producing 'türşık' (winter stews) and various canned goods. Residents are purchasing large quantities of Bursa tomatoes and capia peppers to stock up, anticipating that vegetable prices may rise due to upcoming frost and snow. This practice, once primarily a way for low-income families to manage budgets, has become a necessity for middle-income households as well due to rising living costs and food inflation. Traditional dishes like Babagannuş and Imam Bayildi fillings are also being prepared for long-term storage.

Similarly, in Düzce, many are visiting local markets to buy ingredients for homemade tomato and pepper pastes. While some residents prefer the convenience of store-bought products, many emphasize that homemade versions are fresher, more reliable, and more economical. Local vendors note that while unit prices for produce have increased and overall supply is lower than in previous years, the tradition of making preserves remains a significant seasonal activity, even as some younger generations opt for ready-made products.