Gaziantep zahter tea is a traditional herbal tea unique to Gaziantep province, registered as a geographical indication under the mahreç indication on May 18, 2022, in accordance with Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property. It is a prominent and well-established element of Gaziantep’s culinary culture.

Distinctive Features

The tea is made from the plant Thymbra spicata L., locally known as zahter, karabaş kekik, sater, or zater. It is prepared using the aerial parts of the plant, which are dried and steeped in hot water. Optionally, it can be sweetened with honey, white sugar or flavored with lemon.

Zahter is recognized by its oval-egg-shaped leaves and purple, pink or white flowers. Its distinctive thyme-like aroma becomes pronounced when steeped in hot water, setting Gaziantep zahter tea apart from other herbal teas.

Production Process

Only zahter plants grown in Gaziantep province are used for this tea. The harvest typically occurs in May. The plant’s branches are cut and placed in food-safe containers, washed thoroughly and dried for about a week in well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight. Drying can be done traditionally or with appropriate technical equipment.

The dried zahter is separated from its stems, resulting in a mixture of leaves, flowers and shoot tips ready for consumption. The product is either sold loose or packaged in food-safe materials. Hygiene standards and protection from direct sunlight are maintained throughout all stages.

Preparation and Serving

To prepare the tea, approximately 2 grams of zahter is used per 200 ml of water. For the infusion method, zahter is steeped in hot water for 3–4 minutes. Alternatively, it can be prepared by passing hot water through zahter in a strainer. The tea is served with optional additions of honey, sugar or lemon.

Geographical Connection and Inspection

The reputation of Gaziantep zahter tea is directly tied to Gaziantep province and all production stages must occur within this region. The inspection process is coordinated by the Gaziantep Commodity Exchange, with a committee of at least three members, including representatives from the Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and the Şehitkâmil Chamber of Agriculture. Inspections are conducted at least annually, with additional checks as needed or in response to complaints.

Inspections verify the production method, packaging and proper use of the geographical indication. Any non-compliance is reported to the relevant individuals or entities. Inspection reports are submitted annually to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office.