Konya Reyhan Sherbet

Konya Holy Basil Sherbet is a beverage unique to the province of Konya with a long-standing historical tradition. Prepared through a specialized production method that combines water, white powdered sugar, holy basil herb, lemon salt, and lemon peel, this sherbet holds an important place in Konya’s gastronomic culture. This drink, which requires skilled craftsmanship in its preparation, has become synonymous with Konya and gained recognition. Konya Holy Basil Sherbet, which was registered as a geographical indication on 24 September 2020 under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property, was officially registered on 6 August 2021 by the Konya Metropolitan Municipality.

Konya Holy Basil Sherbet is a beverage primarily composed of holy basil herb (Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum sanctum, or Ocimum suave), water, white powdered sugar, lemon salt, and lemon peel. Its distinctive qualities stem from the quality of the ingredients used and its original production method. This beverage, unique to Konya, attracts attention for both its flavor and the delicacy of its preparation. The sherbet is typically consumed cold and is known for its refreshing effect.

The preparation of Konya Holy Basil Sherbet requires specific expertise and follows a traditional method. The average quantities of ingredients used for a four-person serving are as follows:

• 2 liters of water
• 1 bunch of holy basil herb (aerial parts)
• 100 grams of white powdered sugar
• 10 grams of lemon salt
• 2 halves of squeezed lemon peel

In the preparation process, the holy basil herb is first carefully cleaned and washed. It is then chopped into several pieces and placed in a food-safe container. Boiling water and white powdered sugar are added on top. Once the sugar has dissolved, lemon salt and lemon peel are added and the mixture is thoroughly stirred. The mixture is left to cool and, after cooling, it is strained and prepared for serving. The sherbet is typically served cold and is best consumed in this manner.

Konya Holy Basil Sherbet has a strong association with the province of Konya. This beverage, known and consumed in Konya for many years, is an integral part of the region’s cultural heritage. All stages of its production are carried out within the boundaries of Konya province, ensuring the preservation of its authenticity and quality. This sherbet, deeply linked to Konya’s geographical and cultural identity, is protected under geographical indication status.

In the production of Konya Holy Basil Sherbet, the term “Konya Holy Basil Sherbet” and the geographical indication emblem must be used on the product or its packaging. If these cannot be placed directly on the product or packaging, they must be displayed in a clearly visible location within the production facility. The production process and compliance with standards are regularly monitored by a control body established under the coordination of the Konya Metropolitan Municipality. This body consists of representatives from the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, the Konya Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Faculty of Tourism at Necmettin Erbakan University. Inspections are conducted at least once a year, with additional inspections carried out as needed. During inspections, the production method, the ingredients used, and the proper use of the geographical indication emblem are verified. Any identified non-compliances are reported to the relevant individuals or institutions, and necessary corrective measures are taken.

Konya Holy Basil Sherbet represents Konya’s culinary heritage both as a traditional and cultural beverage, and has earned a unique place in the world of gastronomy through these distinctive characteristics.