Bartın gözlemesi is a traditional pastry unique to Bartın province in Türkiye’s Western Black Sea region, registered with a Protected Geographical Indication. Under the Industrial Property Law No. 6769, it was granted geographical indication status on March 10, 2022, and has been protected by Bartın Municipality since that date.

Geographical Link and Production Conditions

Bartın gözlemesi holds a significant place in the culinary culture of Bartın. Its production method relies on unique techniques practiced exclusively within this geographical area, establishing a direct reputation link between the product and the region. All production stages must take place within the boundaries of Bartın province to comply with the registration.

Product Characteristics

Bartın gözlemesi is a plain pastry cooked on a stone griddle over a wood fire. The dough is rolled to a diameter of approximately 40–45 cm and folded into four layers before baking, with a pre-fold thickness ranging between 0.5–1 cm. When served, it may be cut into rolls or broken into pieces by hand.

Its distinctive feature comes from a special mixture applied after baking. A blend of basil, milk, salt, black pepper, and vegetable oil is boiled together and poured over the gözleme, giving it a unique character that sets it apart from other types of gözleme.

Preparation

To make Bartın gözlemesi, the following ingredients are used: 500 g wheat flour, 400 ml water, 100 ml sunflower oil, 400 ml milk, one bunch of basil, 5 g salt, and 5 g black pepper. Flour, water, and salt are mixed and kneaded, then divided into three portions. After resting, the dough is rolled into thin sheets, brushed with oil, rolled into cylinders, and rested again. The rolls are then unrolled and cooked on a stone griddle over a wood fire. Meanwhile, milk, salt, black pepper, oil, and basil are boiled together to create the special mixture. Once baked, the gözleme is soaked with this mixture and either cut into strips and rolled or broken into pieces for serving.

Control and Inspection

The production of Bartın gözlemesi is supervised by a three-member inspection board coordinated by Bartın Municipality. The board includes experts from the Bartın Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the Bartın Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and Bartın Municipality. Inspections are conducted at least once a year and can also take place whenever necessary or in case of complaints.

Inspection criteria include compliance with ingredients, adherence to the production method, and correct use of the Bartın gözlemesi name and Protected Geographical Indication emblem. The board may seek support from public or private institutions. The registering authority is responsible for overseeing the legal processes.