On December 7th, Confucius Institute at the Middle East Technical University (METU CI) successfully hosted a cultural event themed "Taste of Culture—Chinese Cuisine Tasting Day". The event aimed to deepen Turkish students' understanding of Chinese food culture and facilitate intercultural exchange. A total of 20 students participated, bringing creative dishes to the event.

The event started at 14:00, with the host outlining the agenda to students. Subsequently, participating students showcased their Chinese dishes. During short oral presentations, they introduced dish names, cooking ways, and their cultural significance, demonstrating both enthusiasm and understanding regarding Chinese food culture. Following these presentations, all dishes were arranged for tasting among teachers and students.

The tasting session lasted approximately 35 minutes, during which all the attendees voted for their favorite dishes. In addition to the dishes prepared by students, Chinese teachers in METU CI also brought homemade Chinese delicacies. Many students engaged in discussions concerning cooking techniques, flavor and Chinese dietary philosophies, cultivating a relaxed, convivial, and culturally immersive atmosphere.

Based on the final voting outcomes, seven students won the prizes. Alperen Ergin won the first prize; Beren Kütükçü and Burak Ahmet Yıldız received the second prizes; Kidist Abebe, İlyas Yalçınkaya, Eren Berk Karabulut, and Ekim Erkök were awarded third prizes. METU CI presented the winners with exquisite prizes and awarded all participants panda-themed T-shirts, acknowledging their diligent preparation and active engagement in this event.

This "Chinese Cuisine Tasting Day" not only provided students with an authentic opportunity to acquire fundamental Chinese cooking techniques but also deepen their understanding of Chinese cuisine. It served as a meaningful bridge for cultural exchange between different food culture. Moving forward, METU CI remains committed to organizing diverse cultural initiatives, thereby advancing mutual understanding and friendship among China and Türkiye.