7 GI-Certified Turkish Products
Each region is distinct in terms of its physical, social and cultural characteristics. Local food products of that places differ too. Türkiye possesses a wide variety of local products spread all over the country, some of which are GI-Certified and well-known worldwide. Just a quick reminder: GI (Geographical Indication) is a label placed on items that have a specific geographical origin and have characteristics or a reputation that are related to that origin. Let’s take a look at some of the delectable heritage of Turkish lands below. All signed "Made in Türkiye" with love!
1. Gaziantep’s Baklava
As you may know, Baklava is the most popular traditional Turkish dessert. There are many regional variations of Baklava but the one which is made in Gaziantep stands out from the rest with its GI-Certificate. In Gaziantep Baklava, locally grown pistachios are used. It is often served with Kaymak (clotted cream) and milk to lighten its sweet load.
2. Aydın’s Figs
Aydın is a fig paradise. Approximately 70% of the world's fig production is supplied by Aydın in Türkiye. You can recognize Aydın fig by its yellow color and consume this fruit full of vitamins as fresh or sun-dried to get a more intense taste.
3. Malatya’s Apricots
Apricot is another Turkish product that has received CI-Certification. Malatya is known as the world's (and Türkiye’s) apricot capital. Apricots are cultivated in many places in Türkiye but none of them can be compared with Malatya’s local apricots. They are much bigger and sweeter than other types. Malatya’s apricot is also perfect for producing sun-dried apricots which can be stored and consumed throughout the year.
4. Aydın’s Chestnuts
Aydın has another registered Turkish food product in addition to its world-renowned figs. It is the food that makes you miss winter! Aydın’s chestnuts are grown on plateaus irrigated by the Büyük Menderes River's water. They are bigger in size than those grown elsewhere. The fleshy part of Aydın Chestnut is very soft and it is easily peeled. You can make chestnut kebab, a Turkish favourite, by roasting it on fire. Chestnut candy is another tasty option for those with a wild sweet tooth.
5. Taşköprü Garlic
Another GI-Certificated Turkish product is Taşköprü garlic. Taşköprü garlic is cultivated in Taşköprü district of Kastamonu. It is widely regarded as the best garlic in the world. When compared to other garlic varieties, its most distinguishing characteristics are its high aroma, pungent odor, and bitterness. Taşköprü garlic is the most valuable garlic in terms of medicinal properties. It has the highest levels of iron, sulfur, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains sufficient amount of selenium, an important mineral for cancer prevention.
6. Milas Olive Oil
Milas Olive Oil is produced in olive groves in Milas, Muğla. Milas has two olive oil brands that are among the top 500 in the world. Milas olive oil is the first Turkish olive oil to receive geographical indication mark from the European Union. Milas Olive Oil's reputation stems from the use of the Memecik olive, which has been grown intensively since the ancient times.
7. Bayramiç Beyazı
The last spot on our list is reserved for Bayramiç Beyazı. To be more clear, it is a plum-looking white nectarine known as Bayramiç Beyazı. In the world, it is only grown on the slopes of Mount Ida in the Bayramiç district of Çanakkale. This tasty fruit is all you need for a summer munchies.