Milas Vekilharcı is a traditional dish specific to Milas district in Muğla province. It consists of phyllo dough filled with minced meat mixture, baked, and then served with meat or chicken broth, strained yogurt, and spices. It was registered as a Protected Geographical Indication on December 9, 2022, and is protected under the Industrial Property Law No. 6769.

Product Characteristics

Milas Vekilharcı is prepared by layering phyllo dough made from wheat flour, water, olive oil, and eggs with a filling consisting of medium-fat minced meat, olive oil, parsley, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. The filled dough is arranged in a circular pattern in a tray, cut into 2 cm squares, and baked in the oven. After baking, it is moistened with hot chicken or meat broth, and served with strained garlic yogurt (known locally as kese yogurt), melted butter flavored with ground red pepper, black pepper, and parsley. Each portion consists of 150 g of the dish and 80 ml of hot meat/chicken broth.

The uniqueness of this dish lies in its deep-rooted connection to Milas culinary culture, where it is traditionally prepared during special occasions such as Ramadan and wedding ceremonies. The strained yogurt used in its preparation is also sourced locally from Milas.

Preparation Method

The dough ingredients are kneaded and rested for one hour, then divided into 70 g portions and rolled out with a rolling pin into 60 cm-wide sheets, approximately 1 mm thick. The filling is prepared by sautéing minced meat with olive oil and spices, followed by the addition of parsley. Once cooled, the filling is placed along one edge of each sheet, which is then rolled up. The rolls are arranged in a greased tray in a circular shape, starting from the center and moving outward, and baked at 180°C for about 30 minutes.

After baking, the rolls are placed on a serving plate, topped with hot meat or chicken broth, strained garlic yogurt, melted butter with red pepper, black pepper, and parsley, and served warm. In restaurants, Milas Vekilharcı is often pre-baked and portioned upon order. For takeaway service, food-safe packaging materials are used.

Geographical Boundaries and Supervision

All stages of Milas Vekilharcı production take place within the borders of Milas district in Muğla province. The connection between the geographical area and the product’s reputation is established through its historical origins and use of local ingredients.

Compliance with the registration certificate is monitored at least once a year, and additionally when necessary, by a control committee consisting of at least four experts representing public and professional organizations, under the coordination of the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The inspection covers criteria such as ingredient conformity, production method, serving style, packaging, and correct use of the geographical indication mark.