Malatya Spicy Yogurt Drink with Dill / Malatya Spicy Yogurt Drink with Fat Hen

Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran, also known as Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran, is a traditional yogurt drink unique to the province of Malatya, made from yogurt or strained yogurt, pirpirim (semizotu), red chili pepper, water, and optionally salt. This beverage, locally known as “yandım çavuş ayranı,” possesses a distinctive flavor and character due to the use of pirpirim and red chili pepper. Its production relies on the pirpirim plant cultivated in Malatya, and the fermentation process takes place in food-safe earthenware cubes at 4 °C for 15 to 18 days. The product is officially registered with a geographical indication and is traditionally served in handled copper cups.

Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran is a beverage exclusive to the province of Malatya and is also known locally as “yandım çavuş ayranı”. It holds an important place in Malatya’s culinary culture. The product’s distinguishing feature lies in the addition of pirpirim (semizotu) and red chili pepper to a yogurt or strained yogurt base. These plant-based ingredients impart a unique flavor profile and a regional character to the drink.

The origins of this product are deeply rooted in the traditional culinary practices of Malatya. The pirpirim (semizotu) and red chili pepper used in its production are grown exclusively within the geographical boundaries of the region, establishing a strong link between the product and its place of origin, known as a geographical indication.

The production of Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran follows the components and steps outlined below:

• Yogurt or Strained Yogurt: 2 kg of yogurt or 800 g of strained yogurt is used.
• Pirpirim (Semizotu): One bunch is cleaned, stripped of its roots, thoroughly washed, and drained. Pirpirim may be added raw or blanched, depending on preference.
• Red Chili Pepper: 300 g is used and cut lengthwise before being added to the mixture.
• Water: 1 liter is used; the quantity may be adjusted according to desired consistency.
• Salt: Added optionally.

The production process proceeds as follows: Yogurt and salt are thoroughly whisked, then water is added. Next, the lengthwise-cut red chili peppers and pirpirim (semizotu) are incorporated into the mixture. The resulting blend is placed in food-safe earthenware cubes and stored at +4 °C for 15 to 18 days to complete the fermentation process.

Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran is stored at +4 °C in food-safe earthenware jars or glass containers. The beverage is traditionally served in handled copper cups.

All stages of production for Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran must take place within the boundaries of Malatya province. The method of production is specific to the region, and the pirpirim (semizotu) used is cultivated exclusively in Malatya, thereby establishing a geographical indication linking the product to its origin.

The product packaging must bear the inscription “Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran” along with the geographical indication emblem. In cases where this inscription and emblem cannot be displayed on the packaging, they must be clearly visible at the production facility.

The inspection of production, processing, and packaging of Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran is coordinated by the Battalgazi Municipality. The inspection authority consists of one expert representative each from Battalgazi Municipality, the Malatya Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Malatya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism. Inspections are conducted regularly at least once a year and may also be carried out whenever necessary or upon complaint.

During inspections, the following aspects are verified:

• Appropriateness of ingredients used in production
• Compliance with the established production method
• Adherence to proper storage conditions
• Correct use of the product name and geographical indication emblem

The inspection authority may obtain support or services from public institutions, private organizations, or qualified individuals within these entities as needed. The entity responsible for registering the product is accountable for initiating and managing legal procedures to protect the geographical indication.

Malatya Pirpirimli Acılı Ayran / Malatya Semizotlu Acılı Ayran is a product that must be produced exclusively within the boundaries of Malatya province due to its specific ingredients and production characteristics, and is therefore protected under the geographical indication system.