This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
Milas çaykaması is a traditional pie unique to the Milas district of Muğla Province, registered with a geographical indication. The product, registered as a geographical indication on 7 September 2022, is one of the cultural elements of Milas cuisine. This pie has been produced for many years in homes and local businesses in the region and is served both in daily meals and on special occasions. The use of local herbs and Milas Olive Oil reinforces the product’s connection to the region.
Milas Çaykaması is made by placing a filling prepared from regional herbs and çökelek cheese into a dough made from wheat flour, corn flour, olive oil, yogurt, egg, salt, and water. The surface is then covered with a mixture of kaymak obtained from boiled fresh milk and Milas Olive Oil, and baked in an oven. The olive oil used is the geographically indicated Milas Olive Oil.
The herbs used in the filling include parsley, dill, spinach, chard, beet leaves, fresh onion, leek, lettuce, coriander (kişkincik), wood sorrel leaves (kapçık), stinging nettle (dalgan), heartsease, mountain leek (köremen), labada, and tere (kerdime). These herbs are used with both leaves and stems. The product is typically served in 10 x 10 cm slices, accompanied by strained yogurt or ayran. It may be sold in containers suitable for food contact.
The production of Milas Çaykaması is carried out using herbs grown within the geographical boundary and çökelek cheese produced locally. The dough is prepared by mixing wheat flour and corn flour with yogurt, olive oil, egg, salt, and warm water. The filling is made by combining chopped herbs, çökelek cheese, salt, and olive oil.
Half of the dough is spread over an oiled tray, followed by the filling. The remaining half of the dough is diluted with water and spread over the filling. A mixture of kaymak and olive oil is whisked and applied to the top surface. The pie is baked at 200 °C for 35–40 minutes. After cooling, it is sliced and served.
The reputation of Milas Çaykaması is directly linked to its geographical origin. Therefore, all production stages must be carried out within the boundaries of the Milas district. The production and use of the indication are inspected at least once a year under the coordination of the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The inspection body consists of representatives from the Milas District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the Milas Vocational School of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Culinary Arts Program, and the Milas Food Producers and Sellers Craftsmen’s Chamber. Inspection is based on criteria such as ingredient compliance, adherence to production methods, and correct use of the indication.
Product Characteristics
Preparation
Geographical Link and Control
