Aydin Pumpkin Dessert Product Description and Distinguishing Features: Aydın Pumpkin Dessert is produced from the fibrous Cucurbita moschata species of pumpkin commonly known as "öküz kabak" (ox pumpkin) among the locals. Slices of the pumpkin are 2 or 4 mm thick. The appearance is transparent, and when pierced with a fork, it remains firm without breaking.The history of Aydın Pumpkin Dessert dates back to ancient times, and it is particularly present on iftar tables during the Ramadan month. Allowing the pumpkin slices to sit for a day after washing is a specific skill that involves cleaning the seeds, soft fibrous tissue, and outer skin while ensuring that the slice thickness is precisely 2 or 4 mm. These characteristics are region-specific qualities requiring a mastery of skills. Therefore, Aydın Pumpkin Dessert is associated with a geographical region due to its unique attributes. Production Method: Ingredients (for 6 people): - 3 kg pumpkin, - 1.5 kg granulated sugar (sucrose), - 1 cup chopped walnuts, - Tahini.The pumpkin is thoroughly washed before slicing, and after being left to sit for a day, it is cut into slices approximately two or three fingers wide. The seeds, soft fibrous tissue, and outer skin are removed from the inside of the slices. The cleaned pumpkin slices, which are a crucial distinguishing feature of Aydın Pumpkin Dessert, are thinly sliced into 2 or 4 mm slices and placed in a wide, flat-bottomed pot. Granulated sugar is then sprinkled over the pumpkin slices. To prevent the pumpkin aroma, the cooking pot is covered and left to sit overnight.During the cooking of the thin pumpkin slices, to prevent the sugar from caramelizing, the slices are cooked over medium heat without disturbing their shape. The slices are either turned upside down or lightly stirred until they soften. After the pumpkin slices have softened, the pot's lid is left open to continue cooking until the syrup thickens. The cooking process is completed when the pumpkin slices are slightly crisp when a fork is lightly inserted, and they remain intact, flexible, and elastic when lifted onto the fork. The cooked pumpkin slices are turned upside down and arranged on a tray to cool.Aydın Pumpkin Dessert is stored between +2 and +4 °C and served chilled. It is recommended to serve it with tahini and chopped walnuts. Regarding the packaging and sale of Aydın Pumpkin Dessert, the following conditions are specified: - Glass jars or food-grade tin packaging should be used. - Since it is recommended to consume the product within 2 years after production, the suggested consumption date should be indicated on the packaging. - The product should be stored in a cool and dry environment. - After opening the packaging, the product should be refrigerated at +2 or +4 °C, as indicated on the packaging. - The product should be pasteurized at 80 °C before packaging.