Milas Çaykaması is a traditional pastry from the Milas district of Muğla province, registered as a geographical indication. Registered as a Protected Geographical Indication on September 7, 2022, this product is one of the cultural elements of Milas cuisine. Produced in homes and local businesses for many years, this pastry is served both in daily meals and on special occasions. The use of local herbs and Milas Olive Oil strengthens its connection to the region.

Product Characteristics

Milas Çaykaması is made by filling dough prepared with wheat flour, corn flour, olive oil, yogurt, eggs, salt, and water with a mixture of local herbs and curd cheese. Before baking, a mixture of clotted cream (kaymak) obtained from boiled fresh milk and Milas Olive Oil is poured on top. The olive oil used is Milas Olive Oil, which is also a registered geographical indication product.

The filling contains herbs such as parsley, dill, spinach, chard, beet leaves, spring onion, leek, lettuce, coriander, poppy leaves, nettle, chickweed, mountain leek, dock, and garden cress. The leaves and stems of these plants are used. It is typically served in 10 x 10 cm portions and accompanied by strained yogurt or ayran. The product can be sold in containers suitable for food contact.

Preparation

Milas Çaykaması is produced using herbs and curd cheese sourced within the geographical boundaries of Milas. The dough is prepared by mixing wheat and corn flour with yogurt, olive oil, eggs, salt, and warm water. The filling is made by combining chopped herbs, curd cheese, salt, and olive oil.

Half of the dough is spread onto a greased baking tray, and the filling is added on top. The remaining dough, thinned with water, is spread over the filling. A whipped mixture of cream and olive oil is brushed onto the surface. It is baked at 200 °C for 35–40 minutes. After cooling, it is cut into slices and served.

Geographical Link and Supervision

The reputation of Milas Çaykaması is directly linked to its geographical area. Therefore, all stages of production must take place within the Milas district boundaries. The production and use of the geographical indication are inspected at least once a year under the coordination of the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The inspection committee consists of representatives from the Milas District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Milas Vocational School Culinary Program, and the Milas Association of Food Producers and Sellers. The inspections focus on component suitability, adherence to production methods, and correct use of the geographical indication.