Gaziantep Vegetable and Cheese Börek

The Gaziantep vegetable and cheese börek is registered as a trademark under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property. It is a traditional bakery product unique to the province of Gaziantep, made by combining cheese with various vegetables. The product was registered on 6 August 2021 by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office upon application by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality and is recognized as a cultural heritage element with its geographical boundary defined as the province of Gaziantep.

Definition and Distinguishing Characteristics

The Gaziantep vegetable and cheese börek is one of the well-known varieties of börek in Gaziantep cuisine. The cheese used in its production is preferably a half-fat or full-fat variety made in Gaziantep without the addition of salt. The filling includes garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, and optionally tarragon leaves, fresh onion, and egg. The tarragon plant, locally known as “tarhın,” is a distinctive ingredient distinguished by its characteristic flavor and aroma.

The dough is made from wheat flour, water, salt, and fresh bread yeast. The prepared dough is shaped using a special mixture called “bulamaç.” Bulamaç is obtained by mixing fresh bread yeast, water, and white granulated sugar, and it is kept cold to prevent souring.

Preparation

The filling begins with chopping or grating the cheese. Garlic, parsley, and other vegetables are finely chopped and mixed with the cheese. Egg-containing filling is used in open-top böreks, while egg-free filling is used in closed böreks. The dough is rounded and rolled out into a circular shape, then shaped with fingertips after applying bulamaç. Once the filling is placed inside, the edges of the dough are sealed, and the böreks are baked in an oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Closed böreks take on a half-moon shape after baking.

Geographical Boundary and Production Conditions

All stages of production must be carried out within the boundaries of Gaziantep province. The Gaziantep vegetable and cheese börek is a product shaped by the region’s cultural heritage and requires a production process demanding skilled craftsmanship. Accordingly, the product retains its registered status only when produced within the defined geographical boundary.

Monitoring Mechanism

Monitoring is conducted by a minimum three-member authority coordinated by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, comprising representatives from the Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, and the Gaziantep Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen. Inspections are carried out at least once a year; additional inspections may be conducted as needed or upon complaint. During inspections, the product’s ingredients, production method, and use of the registered mark are verified. Any non-compliance is reported to the relevant individual or institution, and necessary corrective measures are taken.