Cultural interactions between Muğla, Crete, and Greek culinary cultures: a gastronomic study in the context of migration and cultural diffusion
International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, vol.44, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 44
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.ijgfs.2026.101506
- Journal Name: International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Keywords: Culinary cultures, Cultural diffusion, Migration, Muğla, Cretan and Greek
- Istanbul Gelisim University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The aim of this study is to examine how Muğla's (Türkiye) culinary culture has been shaped in the historical context of migration and exchange, what transformations it has undergone within the framework of cultural diffusion, and how it has developed through historically narrated interaction as perceived by Muğla-based participants. The present study employed a qualitative research method, adopting an inductive approach. In this study, 13 participants were selected for in-depth interviews, including Muğla locals and Cretan immigrants. The thematic analysis yielded six overarching themes: cultural identity and culinary memory; traditions and ritualized food practices; seasonality and geographic influence; layered culinary traditions; the impact of migration ; and culinary sustainability. The present study addresses the concept of cultural diffusion in the context of gastronomy to explain the formation of gastronomic identity. It offers recommendations for practice and the field based on findings.