About Me

The man is standing in an outdoor setting, holding the macaw on his outstretched arm, both appearing cheerful and enjoying each other's company.

My Early Life

Growing up in Seferihisar, a place teeming with natural beauty and historical richness, I developed a profound appreciation for the environment and its complexities from a very young age. My childhood in Izmir was filled with explorations and discoveries, laying a strong foundation for my future academic and professional pursuits. I lived in this vibrant city until I was 18, absorbing its culture, history, and the warmth of its people.

Academic Pursuits in Aydin

At 18, I made a significant move to Aydin for my university education. It was here, at Adnan Menderes University, that I delved into the world of agricultural engineering. My fascination with how science can be applied to agriculture to enhance sustainability and efficiency drove me to not only complete my undergraduate studies but also to pursue a PhD in the field. My time in Aydin was not just about academics; it was also about personal growth and exploring new horizons.

— About Me

Get to know more about me.

I am the Cook behind the ChefTurko!

Hello, my name is Mustafa Özay, and I was born in the picturesque town of Seferihisar in Izmir in 1993. My journey has been an intriguing blend of academic rigor, professional dedication, and a deep-seated passion for the culinary arts, sports, cinema, and travel.

Growing up in Seferihisar, a place teeming with natural beauty and historical richness, I developed a profound appreciation for the environment and its complexities from a very young age. My childhood in Izmir was filled with explorations and discoveries, laying a strong foundation for my future academic and professional pursuits. I lived in this vibrant city until I was 18, absorbing its culture, history, and the warmth of its people.

Mustafa ÖZAY

— First Steps.

The beginning of my cooking journey!

How I started Cooking in the first place?

A Passion for Culinary Arts

While my professional life has been dedicated to agricultural engineering, my personal passion lies in the realm of culinary arts. Cooking and exploring various culinary cultures have always been my favorite hobbies. The process of creating dishes, experimenting with flavors, and understanding the culinary heritage of different regions has been a source of immense joy and relaxation for me. This hobby has been a delightful journey of sensory exploration and cultural discovery.

Balancing Other Interests

In addition to my culinary pursuits, I am an avid basketball player. Playing basketball has always been a way for me to stay fit, unwind, and indulge in healthy competition. I’m also a fan of science fiction movies, finding myself drawn to the imaginative and often futuristic storytelling that challenges the mind and feeds my curiosity. Moreover, I love going on touristic trips, exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and learning about the history and people of each new place I visit.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my journey, I strive to blend my professional skills as an agricultural engineer with my personal passions. Whether it’s through developing sustainable farming practices, whipping up a new recipe in the kitchen, shooting hoops on the basketball court, losing myself in a sci-fi movie, or planning my next travel adventure, I am always eager to learn, grow, and contribute positively to the world around me. My life is a continuous journey of balancing my professional responsibilities with my personal passions, and I am excited to see where this path takes me.

A top-down view capturing a person's hands kneading a large ball of dough on a floured wooden surface, with baking ingredients and tools neatly arranged around.

— My Motto

Cooking is Exploring!

“Cooking is the alchemy of the senses; a symphony of flavors, aromas, and textures that can transport us to distant lands or return us home with just one bite.”

An overhead shot of a person's hands finely chopping green vegetables on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by a colorful array of spices, herbs, and kitchen utensils.