kazandibi

Kazandibi is a traditional Turkish dessert made from milk, sugar, and rice flour, often thickened with cornstarch or wheat starch. It is a type of baked milk pudding with a distinctive caramelized, slightly burnt bottom layer, which gives it its name, "kazan dibi" meaning "bottom of the pot" in Turkish. The dessert is typically cooked in a wide, shallow pan.

The preparation involves heating milk, sugar, and a thickening agent until it reaches a thick consistency. A portion of this mixture is then placed in a separate pan and caramelized over high heat until a dark, almost black layer forms. The remaining pudding mixture is then poured over the caramelized layer, and the entire dish is baked in the oven until set.

Once cooled, the kazandibi is inverted, revealing the burnt caramel layer on top. It is usually served chilled, often garnished with cinnamon or chopped nuts. The texture is creamy and smooth, with a pleasant contrast from the slightly chewy, caramelized bottom. While the traditional recipe uses milk, variations exist using other dairy products or even plant-based milks. It is a popular dessert found in many Turkish households and restaurants.