Erzurum Kesme Aşı

Erzurum kesme aşı çorbası is a traditional soup indigenous to the province of Erzurum in Türkiye, officially registered with geographical indication status. This soup derives its name from “kesme,” a type of homemade egg noodle used in its preparation, and is made with unique ingredients such as green lentils and tarragon herb. Roasted köfte may be added optionally. Recognized as a flavor that preserves its regional identity through history, kesme aşı çorbası holds an important place in Erzurum’s culinary culture.

Production Process

To prepare the kesme noodles, eggs, special-purpose wheat flour, salt and water are mixed to form a dough, which is then rolled thin, dried and cut into small strips. The köfte are made from ground beef, black pepper, salt and liquid oil, then fried. The main components of the soup are green lentils, kesme noodles, dried onion, butter, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, dried tarragon, salt and water.

Preparation Steps

The green lentils are boiled and drained, then combined with sautéed onion, tomato paste and spices, and cooked briefly. The kesme noodles and water are added, and once the mixture begins to boil, the köfte and tarragon are incorporated optionally and cooked for a few more minutes. The soup is served hot.

Geographical Boundary and Protection

All stages of production for kesme aşı çorbası are carried out within the boundaries of Erzurum province to ensure the product’s authenticity and geographical indication status. The registration of the product was completed by the Erzurum Chamber of Commerce on 13 April 2022, under the protection framework of Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property.

Monitoring and Quality Assurance

Inspections are conducted at least once a year by a three-member inspection board composed of faculty members from Atatürk University Faculty of Tourism, the Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and relevant experts, under the coordination of the Erzurum Chamber of Commerce. These inspections cover the suitability of raw materials and production methods, as well as compliance with regulations regarding product packaging and geographical indication labeling. Inspections are intensified when necessary or upon complaint. Thus, Erzurum kesme aşı çorbası is safeguarded both in terms of flavor and geographical identity.