A Turkish spice made from sun-dried chili peppers that have been crushed into a paste.
Biber Salcasi, or Turkish chili paste, is a flavorful and versatile spice condiment that is a staple in Turkish cuisine. Made from sun-dried chili peppers that have been crushed into a paste, Biber Salcasi adds depth and complexity to a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to grilled meats and vegetables.
In this post, we’ll explore the history and flavor profile of Biber Salcasi, as well as provide a recipe for making your own at home and some popular dishes that use it.
History And Flavor Profile Of Biber Salcasi
Biber Salcasi has been a staple in Turkish cuisine for centuries, and its popularity has spread throughout the Middle East and beyond. The spice paste is made from a variety of sun-dried chili peppers, including Aleppo peppers, Urfa peppers, and Maras peppers, that are ground into a paste with salt, garlic, and olive oil. The result is a complex and slightly sweet flavor profile, with a moderate level of heat.
Biber Salcasi is a versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes. It pairs particularly well with grilled meats and vegetables, as well as in soups and stews. It can also be used as a condiment, spread on bread or mixed into yogurt or hummus.
Biber Salcasi Sweet Pepper Paste Overview
Here’s a table describing facts and characteristics about Biber Salcasi Sweet Pepper Paste:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Texture | Thick and paste-like |
| Flavor Release | Bold, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor |
| Color | Deep red or burgundy |
| Common Uses | Used as a seasoning and flavor enhancer in various dishes, such as stews, soups, marinades, and sauces |
| Baking | Can be added to bread dough or used as a glaze for roasted meats |
| Storage | Refrigerate after opening; can be stored for several months |
| Cost | Affordable |
| Smell | Sweet and aromatic |
| Taste | Sweet with a mild pepper flavor |
| Culinary Advantages | Adds depth and richness to dishes, versatile in various cuisines, enhances savory and sweet flavors |
Popular Dishes That Use Biber Salcasi
Biber Salcasi can be used in a variety of dishes, from marinades and sauces to soups and stews. Here are a few popular Turkish dishes that incorporate Biber Salcasi:
| Dish/Recipe | Description |
|---|---|
| Muhammara | Middle Eastern dip made with roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Biber Salcasi |
| Turkish Tomato and Red Lentil Soup | Hearty soup made with red lentils, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, with Biber Salcasi as a seasoning |
| Ezogelin Soup | Turkish soup made with red lentils, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions, and various spices, with Biber Salcasi |
| Turkish Lamb Stew | Comforting stew with lamb, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and Biber Salcasi as a seasoning |
| Turkish Kisir | Bulgur salad with finely ground bulgur, Biber Salcasi, tomato paste, lemon juice, herbs, and vegetables |
| Turkish Eggplant and Tomato Spread | Spread made with roasted eggplants, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and Biber Salcasi as a seasoning |
| Marinated Grilled Chicken | Grilled chicken marinated with Biber Salcasi as a component for a sweet and tangy flavor |
| Biber Salcasi Pasta Sauce | Pasta sauce with Biber Salcasi added to a tomato-based sauce for extra flavor |
| Stuffed Bell Peppers | Bell peppers stuffed with a filling that includes Biber Salcasi for a sweet and tangy element |
| Biber Salcasi Dip | Quick and tasty dip made by combining Biber Salcasi with Greek yogurt or cream cheese |
How To Make Biber Salcasi
While Biber Salcasi can be purchased at many Middle Eastern or Mediterranean markets, it is also easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
Here’s a simple recipe for making your own Biber Salcasi:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sun-dried sweet or chili peppers (a combination of Aleppo, Urfa, and Maras peppers)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Place the sun-dried sweet or chili peppers in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 20-30 minutes, or until the peppers are soft and pliable.
- Drain the peppers and remove the stems and seeds.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the peppers, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
- Transfer the Biber Salcasi to a clean, airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Biber Salcasi is a versatile and flavorful spice paste that is a staple in Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re grilling meat, making soup, or spreading it on bread, Biber Salcasi adds depth and complexity to any dish. Try making your own at home with this simple recipe, and experiment with incorporating it into your favorite Turkish dishes.