Milas Kanlı Kavurması is a traditional chicken-based dish unique to the Milas district of Muğla province. It was registered as a Geographical Indication (Protected Geographical Indication) on September 6, 2022, and has a deep-rooted place in the region’s culinary culture. The name “kanlı” (meaning “bloody”) refers to the red color imparted by tomatoes and tomato paste. Produced exclusively within the boundaries of Milas, the dish is prepared using local ingredients and traditional methods, holding an important place in both everyday meals and the region’s cultural memory.
Product Characteristics
Milas Kanlı Kavurması is a type of sautéed dish prepared with village chicken, green peppers, tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. The whole chicken is cut into bone-in pieces with the skin, boiled with a small amount of water, and then browned in olive oil. Chopped green peppers, onions, tomato paste, tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt are then added to complete the cooking process.
The term “kanlı” (bloody) originates from the reddish color created by tomatoes and tomato paste, which has led to the dish being locally known as “kanlı kavurma”. In addition to its role in daily cuisine, Milas Kanlı Kavurması occupies a significant place in local food heritage.
Preparation
The ingredients and their quantities are as follows:
- 1100–1300 g village chicken
- 140 g onion
- 2 sweet and 1 hot green pepper
- 220 g tomato
- 50 g tomato paste
- 20 g red pepper flakes
- 20 g salt
- 100 ml olive oil
- 70 ml water
The chicken pieces are cooked over medium heat until the liquid evaporates. Olive oil is then added, and the meat is sautéed. Once the color changes, green peppers, onions, tomato paste, tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt are added sequentially, completing the cooking process. The dish is traditionally served in 35 cm metal pans (sahan).
Geographical Area and Inspection
Milas Kanlı Kavurması can be produced only within the Milas district of Muğla province. The reputation and method of production are directly linked to this geographical area, and all production stages must take place within its boundaries.
The product’s compliance is inspected at least once a year under the coordination of the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The inspection committee consists of one representative each from the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Milas District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Culinary Program of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Milas Vocational School. The inspections cover the suitability of ingredients, faithfulness to production methods, and proper use of the Protected Geographical Indication.
