Urfa Biber – Isot Chili from Turkey
Urfa Biber, also known as Isot Chili, is a traditional Turkish chili variety from the Urfa region in southeastern Turkey. With its mild to medium heat, smoky aroma, and slightly sweet and earthy flavor, this chili is a versatile ingredient in Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine.
You can buy our Isot Chili conveniently online in packaging sizes from 50 g to 1 kg.
What is Isot Chili (Urfa Biber)?
Isot Chili, a variety of Capsicum annuum, grows near the city of Şanlıurfa (Urfa) in Turkey, close to the Syrian border. The region lies on ancient spice trade routes between Persia and the Mediterranean. The chili plants are cultivated for their dark red to purplish fruits, which are harvested only when fully ripe.
How Isot Chili is Produced
The production process of Urfa Biber is unique and gives the chili its distinct aroma. After harvesting, the chili pods are sun-dried during the day and then wrapped in cloth overnight to retain moisture. This traditional technique, repeated over several days, leads to a fermentation-like process that results in the chili's soft texture and glossy appearance. Once dried, the chilis are coarsely ground and mixed with a small amount of salt and oil to preserve the flavor and texture.
Flavor Profile of Urfa Biber
Isot Chili has a medium level of heat (approximately 40,000 Scoville Heat Units) and offers a complex flavor with smoky, sweet, and earthy notes. It pairs well with ingredients such as:
- Chocolate – for rich desserts with a subtle chili kick
- Ginger – to enhance both sweet and savory dishes
- Vanilla – for a spicy contrast in baked goods
- Orange zest – excellent in marinades and glazes
Culinary Uses of Isot Chili
In Turkish cuisine, Urfa Biber is used to season traditional dishes such as kebab, köfte (meatballs), and çiğ köfte. It also adds depth to vegetable casseroles, tomato salads, and lamb dishes. Sprinkle it over grilled meats or stir into sauces and marinades for a warm, smoky flavor without overwhelming heat.
Another popular use: mix it with olive oil to season olives, dips, or roasted vegetables.
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness and aroma, store Isot Chili in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Proper storage will help preserve the chili’s characteristic flavor and color for months.
Ingredients: Isot chili (Capsicum annuum), salt, vegetable oil
Origin: Turkey
