Karaman Kırma Böreği

Karaman Kırma Böreği is a traditional baked dish specific to the province of Karaman, prepared using phyllo dough, unsalted lor cheese, yogurt, eggs, and liquid oil. The term “kırma” in its name refers to the distinctive folding method of the phyllo layers, and it is also commonly known among the public as “Muhacir Böreği.” This name originates from the communities of migrants who began preparing it in the region toward the end of the 1800s. In 2023, it was officially registered with a geographical indication seal, solidifying its place in Karaman’s culinary heritage.

The distinctive feature of Karaman Kırma Böreği lies in its simple filling and the unique way the phyllo layers are folded and arranged on the tray. A mixture of yogurt and eggs spread over the phyllo, combined with sprinkled unsalted lor cheese, gives the dish its characteristic flavor. The phyllo sheets are folded inward from opposite edges to form a central fold, then cut into strips of specific lengths and arranged on an oiled tray in a pattern from the outside toward the center. The surface is coated again with the yogurt-egg mixture before baking.

^{Karaman Kırma Böreği (}T.C. Karaman Governorship⁾

• 500 g phyllo dough
• 225 g unsalted lor cheese
• 360 g yogurt
• 2 eggs
• 24 ml liquid oil

A sauce is prepared by whisking together the yogurt and eggs. The phyllo sheets are laid out on a work surface, and the prepared sauce is spread evenly over each sheet. The finely chopped unsalted lor cheese is then sprinkled in equal intervals across the surface. The sheets are folded inward from opposite edges to form a central fold, creating long strips. These strips are cut into pieces 5–6 cm in width and arranged on an oiled baking tray in a spiral pattern from the outside toward the center. The remaining sauce is mixed with the liquid oil and poured over the top. The tray is gently shaken to allow the sauce to seep between the layers. The börek is baked in an oven preheated to 180 °C until the top turns golden brown. Karaman Kırma Böreği can be served hot or cold and may also be packaged for cold presentation.

Karaman Kırma Böreği has been officially registered with a geographical indication seal by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. The application for geographical indication was submitted by the Karaman Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the product was registered on 25 July 2023 under registration number 1420, granting it legal protection. The registration confirms that the product must be produced in a specific geographical area and is intrinsically linked to that region. The traditional production method, ingredients, and presentation of Karaman Kırma Böreği, together with its geographical indication registration, contribute to the preservation of local culinary heritage and enhance its economic value.

Monitoring of the production and sale of Karaman Kırma Böreği is carried out by a minimum three-member inspection unit coordinated by the Karaman Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, with participation from a representative of the Karaman Bakers, Pastry Makers, Restaurant Owners and Food Producers Trade Association. Inspections are conducted regularly at least once a year. In cases of necessity or upon complaint, the frequency of inspections may be increased. During inspections, compliance with ingredient specifications, adherence to the traditional production method, and proper use of the geographical indication seal are verified.