Gaziantep pirpirim aşı (Gaziantep pirpirim stew) is a traditional dish unique to Gaziantep cuisine, with a long historical background. It was registered with a indication of origin on December 6, 2021, under Law No. 6769, and the registration was made by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality.
Definition and Distinctive Features
This dish is prepared using the pirpirim plant, known locally as purslane. Both dried and fresh pirpirim can be used, combined with loğlaz (cowpea), pilaf-quality bulgur, green lentils, chickpeas, tomato and pepper paste, dried mint, sumac, dried garlic, onion, olive oil or clarified butter and various spices. Optional ingredients include sun-dried tomatoes and dried peppers. In the meat version, cubed meat or minced lamb is added.
Gaziantep pirpirim aşı holds a strong connection to its geographical origin through both its ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The proportions of ingredients, cooking sequence and techniques are specific to Gaziantep cuisine.
Production Method
Preparation varies depending on the type of pirpirim used. When using dried pirpirim, it is cleaned with water the night before, briefly boiled and left to soak overnight. Chickpeas are similarly pre-soaked. Fresh pirpirim is coarsely chopped and drained in a colander.
Cooking begins with sautéing onions and pastes, followed by adding hot water and cooking the green lentils. Pre-cooked chickpeas, loğlaz, pirpirim, bulgur, garlic, sumac and spices are then added and simmered over low heat. Finally, red pepper and dried mint sautéed in hot oil are sprinkled on top. In the meat version, additional steps include cooking and tenderizing the meat.
Geographical Boundary and Inspection
The dish’s reputation and preparation method are directly linked to Gaziantep province. Therefore, all production stages must take place within the province. Inspections are conducted under the coordination of the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality by a board of at least three representatives from the Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and the Gaziantep Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen. Inspections ensure ingredient authenticity, adherence to the production method and proper use of the indication of origin.
Usage
The label “Gaziantep Pirpirim Aşı” and the indication of origin emblem must appear on the product or its packaging. If placement on the packaging is not possible, the label and emblem must be displayed visibly within the production facility.
