Gaziantep Yogurt with Fresh Beans

Gaziantep yogurt-based fresh green beans is a traditional dish that has been part of Gaziantep’s culinary culture since the 1950s, prepared with strained yogurt, cubed meat, chickpeas, and fresh green beans. It is served by drizzling hot olive oil or clarified butter seasoned with sumac and black pepper over the dish. This unique recipe is protected as a geographical indication under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property, due to its strong association with Gaziantep province and the fact that all production stages take place within this geographic boundary. The registration process was completed on 10 February 2022.

Preparation

The main ingredients of the dish are as follows:

• Cubed meat (250–400 g)
• Fresh green beans, preferably sugar beans (500–1000 g)
• Chickpeas (60–100 g)
• Strained yogurt (600–720 g)
• Egg (1)
• Sumac (3–5 g)
• Salt (5–6 g)
• Black pepper (3–5 g)
• Olive oil or clarified butter (20–40 g)

In the preparation process, chickpeas are soaked overnight; the meat is boiled, after which the chickpeas and chopped green beans are added and cooking is completed. The yogurt is mixed with egg and gently heated while continuously stirring over low heat, then diluted with some of the dish’s liquid before being added to the dish. In the final stage, oil seasoned with sumac and black pepper is drizzled on top. It is typically served hot accompanied by bulgur or rice pilaf.

Geographical Link and Production Conditions

Due to the dish’s historical roots and cultural significance, all stages of production are carried out within the boundaries of Gaziantep province. This geographical link has enabled the product to be registered as a geographical indication. Packaging must bear the inscription “Gaziantep Yogurt-Based Fresh Green Beans / Antep Yogurt-Based Fresh Green Beans” along with the geographical indication emblem; if packaging is not used, this inscription and emblem must be visibly displayed at the production site.

Monitoring Process

The monitoring of the product is conducted by a three-member authority composed of representatives from the Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and the Gaziantep Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen, under the coordination of the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality. Inspections are carried out at least once annually; additional inspections may be conducted as needed or upon complaint. During inspections, compliance of ingredients, adherence to production methods, and correct use of the indication are verified. The registering institution is responsible for managing legal procedures.