Nevşehir Testi Kebab is cooked in an Avanos clay jug and protected by a geographical indication. Here is how it is made, according to official records.
Testi kebab is one of the dishes guests in Cappadocia ask about most. It is also officially registered: Nevşehir Testi Kebabı is a geographical indication, registered as an indication of source under number 836.
What is testi kebab?
According to the definition on Türkiye's Culture Portal, Nevşehir Testi Kebab is made by placing beef or lamb, various vegetables and spices inside clay jugs made in the Avanos district of Nevşehir, sealing the top with dough and baking it in an oven for 2 to 2.5 hours.
How it is prepared
- The ingredients are not pre-cooked; the meat and vegetables cook together inside the jug.
- The meat goes into the bottom of the jug first, followed by the other ingredients.
- The jug used carries the characteristics of Avanos Pottery, registered under number 293.
- The kebab is usually served by breaking open the jug it was cooked in.
The registration notes that this method took shape as traditional knowledge passed down skilfully through generations.
Testi kebab at Harman Yeri
Testi Kebab (Pottery Kebab) is on the menu at Harman Yeri in Uçhisar. You can see the full menu on our menu page.
Sources
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