Mesir Paste
An Elixir of Healing on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List
Mesir Paste emerged from the hands of Merkez Efendi 478 years ago. Faced with a relentless illness, Hafsa Sultan, the wife of Yavuz Sultan Selim and the mother of Sultan Süleyman, sought solace in the concoction prepared by Merkez Efendi, who served as the esteemed healer at the Sultan Mosque Complex. Comprising 41 spices, this Mesir Paste bestowed healing upon Hafsa Sultan, leading her to advocate for the distribution of this miraculous remedy to the public.
Since that fateful day, Mesir Paste has been scattered every year, evolving into a tradition that spans 477 years today. Beyond its symbolic gesture, Mesir Paste is believed to possess digestive aids, energy-boosting properties, appetite stimulation, fatigue alleviation, and immunity against the toxins of venomous creatures. It is revered not only for its taste but also for its purported healing capabilities.
This annual ritual, rooted in the historical tapestry of the Ottoman Empire, showcases Mesir Paste as more than a sweet treat—it's a cultural heirloom, a tangible link to the past, and a testament to the belief in the remedial powers of this centuries-old concoction. As the Mesir Paste continues to be scattered, it serves as a living reminder of Hafsa Sultan's healing journey and the enduring legacy of Ottoman culinary traditions.