Bitlis Ciğer Taplaması is a traditional dish unique to the Bitlis province, located in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye. It was registered as a geographical indication on October 23, 2024, under the name of Bitlis Eren University, and classified as a designation of origin. This dish holds a significant place in Bitlis’s culinary heritage, both historically and culturally.
Bitlis Ciğer Taplaması ( Türk Patent Ve Marka Kurumu )
Definition and Distinctive Features
Bitlis Ciğer Taplaması is a dish made with lamb or sheep liver, fine bulgur, semolina, onion, egg, green chili peppers, purpose-specific wheat flour, and a variety of spices. After cooking, it is traditionally served hot with a sauce made of melted butter and red pepper flakes poured over it. The word "taplama" refers to "köfte" (meatball) in the local dialect of Bitlis. The key characteristic of the dish lies in its mixture, which is kneaded to a particular consistency, shaped into small and flat discs, and then boiled. Each individual taplama measures approximately 3 cm in diameter, 1 cm in thickness, and weighs around 5 grams. They have a flat and even appearance and are cooked uniformly. The butter and pepper sauce poured on top adds the dish’s signature flavor.
Preparation and Production Method
The traditional recipe is based on an 8-serving portion. The core ingredients include 500 grams of lamb or sheep liver, 250 grams of fine bulgur, 150 grams of semolina, 1 egg, 1 onion, 3 green chili peppers, and various spices such as dried basil, cumin, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Special-purpose wheat flour is also added to the mixture.
During preparation, the liver, onion, and peppers are finely minced using a food processor. The remaining ingredients are added, and the mixture is kneaded for about 10–15 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Pieces weighing 5 grams each are shaped into flat meatballs. These are boiled in 2.5 liters of salted water for approximately 20–25 minutes. Once cooked, they are drained, placed on a serving plate, and topped with a sauce made of butter and red pepper flakes.
Geographical Origin and Link to the Region
Bitlis Ciğer Taplaması is a traditional dish with a history going back many years. It is deeply integrated into the social life and culinary culture of Bitlis. Beyond its taste, it is a notable symbol of the region’s cultural memory. Therefore, in line with its geographical indication registration, the production must take place within the borders of Bitlis province. This geographical limitation ensures the preservation of its authenticity and its reputation, which is tied to the region.
Inspection and Protection
To maintain the quality and production standards of Bitlis Ciğer Taplaması as a geographically indicated product, regular inspections are conducted. The inspection mechanism operates under the coordination of the Rectorate of Bitlis Eren University, involving experts from the Bitlis Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, Tatvan District Directorate of National Education, and Bitlis Eren University. These inspections are carried out at least once a year, with additional inspections conducted when necessary or upon complaints. The inspection process focuses on verifying the compliance of ingredients, ensuring the standardized shape and measurements of the taplamas, and overseeing the proper use of the geographical indication label.
