Chilli of the Week - Turkish Pickling
Chilli of the Week - Turkish Pickling
the sweet & tangy chilli
Biberiye Tursusu: the perfect pickling chilli
Turkish Pickling Chillies, a staple in Turkish cuisine, have garnered attention worldwide for their unique culinary versatility. Originating from Turkey, these peppers are renowned for their robust heat and tangy taste.
Clocking in at approximately 5,000 to 7,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), Turkish Pickling chillies pack a punch (a little up from a Jalapeño). Despite their heat, they offer a complex flavour profile, balancing spiciness with hints of sweetness and tanginess. This versatility makes them ideal for a wide range of culinary applications.
Imagine biting into a plump, pickled Turkish Chilli. The initial tang of the vinegar hits your tongue, followed by a wave of briny goodness. Then, the subtle heat kicks in.
But it doesn’t end there… The pickling process unlocks a whole new dimension of flavour – a hint of smokiness, a touch of sweetness, and an earthy depth that lingers long after the last bite.
The growth habits of Turkish Pickling Chillies lean towards independence, with each plant producing elongated, slender pods that range from 5 to 7 centimetres in length. Initially green, these pods transition to a vibrant red hue as they ripen, offering a visual feast amidst the foliage.
One notable aspect of Turkish Pickling Chillies is their preference for solitary growth, standing apart from other chilli varieties. The leaves themselves are a whimsical sight – elongated and slightly ruffled.
The chillies are traditionally harvested when they reach a vibrant green or just begin to show a hint of red. While they do turn fiery red when fully ripe, the pickling process captures their unique flavour profile at its peak.
In Turkish cuisine, Turkish Pickling chillies play a crucial role, adding depth and character to various dishes. From pickled vegetables to spicy relishes, these chillies impart a distinctive flavour that elevates traditional Turkish cuisine. No Turkish meze spread is complete without a dish of vibrantly coloured pickled vegetables.
This isn't just a standalone snack, the Turkish Pickling Chilli adds a fiery counterpoint to creamy dips like hummus and baba ghanoush, a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds on their toes.
Imagine biting into a plump, pickled Turkish Chilli. The initial tang of the vinegar hits your tongue, followed by a wave of briny goodness. Then, the subtle heat kicks in.
But it doesn’t end there… The pickling process unlocks a whole new dimension of flavour – a hint of smokiness, a touch of sweetness, and an earthy depth that lingers long after the last bite.
Pods begin pale lemon, then deepen to gold before blushing red at the tip.
A single plant carries every colour at once — a painter’s palette of ripening fruit.
These small, firm chillies are usually picked yellow for pickling.
Cross-sections reveal crisp walls and a flash of seeds waiting to ignite the brine.
Chillies are usually picked when green... it also keeps the plant producing.
I check the day’s harvest — these pods pickle beautifully within hours.
Even the flowers on the Turksih Pickling are beautiful.
best picked when yellow for their citrus tones and mild, peppery perfume.
Pickled with garlic and vinegar — sharp, fragrant, and made to cut through rich food.
Served with grilled meats or meze; a burst of Anatolian sunshine on a plate.
Turkish Pickling make for a great gift. Perfect for Chistmas.
Oaxaca’s secret ingredient for bold, earthy dishes.
Oaxaca’s secret ingredient for bold, earthy dishes.
Oaxaca’s secret ingredient for bold, earthy dishes.
Turkish Pickling Chillies pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and creamy cheeses, adding a surprising depth of flavour. Take your homemade pizza to the next level with a sprinkle of chopped pickled chillies. The tangy vinegar cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the heat adds a welcome kick.
Turkish Pickling Chillies offer a delightful blend of heat and flavour with a rich cultural heritage to boot. Their vibrant appearance, robust growth habits, and versatile culinary applications make them a great addition to any garden and kitchen.
A few recipe links for how to pickle your peppers (you might need to switch on the subtitling)
• Turkish Pickling: Video 1
• Turkish Pickling: Video 2
• Turkish Pickling: Video 3
• Turkish Pickling: Video 4
World of Chillies was set up by Sarah Hunt in 2011 to promote chilli growing and the enjoyment of everything hot and spicy.
Chilli Plants
Tomatoes
Chilli Seeds
Delivery Info
About Us
Contact Us
Sign Up Chilli Club
Privacy
Terms & Conditions