Crushed Urfa Pepper

Crushed Urfa pepper, also known as Isot, is a Turkish chili with a unique flavor profile that is smoky, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy.It has a deep purplish-black color and can be used to add a complex, earthy warmth to a wide variety of dishes, from savory applications like grilled meats and stews to unexpected uses in desserts and spreads.  

Culinary uses

Meats:Rub on lamb and beef, especially for kebabs. 

Vegetables:Add to roasted eggplant, kale, or other cruciferous vegetables. 

Dips and spreads:Blend into hummus, baba ganoush, or whipped feta for a smoky, spicy kick. 

Breakfast:Sprinkle on eggs, especially in dishes like Turkish menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers). 

Soups and stews:Stir into hearty stews or bean dishes. 

Pasta and pizza:Use as a topping or blend into sauces for extra flavor. 

Desserts:Drizzle over vanilla ice cream with melted dark chocolate or add to gingerbread spices. 

Marinades:Incorporate into marinades for a complex, smoky depth. 

Flavor and characteristics

Smoky:The drying process gives it a deep, smoky flavor.

Sweet:It has a subtle sweetness with hints of fruitiness.

Mild Heat:Its heat is comparable to that of a mild red pepper, not overwhelmingly spicy.

Earthy:It possesses a grounding, earthy quality that makes it a versatile spice.