Çerkeş kurabiyesi is a distinctive type of cookie embedded in the culinary culture and traditions of the Çerkeş district of Çankırı province. This product, registered with the Mahreç mark on 06.06.2023, is produced within the geographical boundaries of Çerkeş using wheat flour, powdered sugar, and vegetable shortening. Due to its deep historical roots and its traditional serving at special occasions such as weddings and engagements, it is closely associated with its region of origin.
The production of the cookie, particularly during dough preparation and shaping, is typically carried out collaboratively by two people using the imece method.
Çerkeş kurabiyesi has a crisp texture with visible cracks on its baked surface. As a distinguishing feature, the cookie takes the shape of a letter S. The baked cookie weighs between 17 and 19 grams, measures 7 to 9 centimeters in length, and 1 to 2 centimeters in width. Its color is beige, matching the color of the dough.
To produce approximately 250 Çerkeş kurabiyeleri, wheat flour, powdered sugar, and vegetable shortening are used. The production steps are as follows:
- Powdered sugar and vegetable shortening are mixed in a deep container for approximately 20 to 25 minutes until the sugar dissolves and a creamy, homogeneous mixture forms.
- Flour is gradually added to this mixture, and the dough is further mixed for about 30 minutes until a beige, medium-soft dough is obtained.
- Portions of 18 to 20 grams are separated from the prepared dough.
- These portions are rolled by hand using the palms and fingertips into sticks measuring 8 to 10 centimeters in length and 2 to 3 centimeters in width, with the ends smoothed.
- The dough sticks are gently bent at both ends to form a shape resembling the letter S. Two people typically work together to ensure the shaping is uniform.
- The shaped cookies are arranged on an ungreased baking tray.
- They are baked in an oven at 150°C for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, until the underside turns slightly pink.
- After baking, the cookies are left to cool for 15 to 20 minutes, then packaged in food-safe containers. The cookies can be stored for at least six months under cool and dry conditions.
The geographical boundary of Çerkeş kurabiyesi is the Çerkeş district of Çankırı province. Due to its historical heritage, its place in the regional culinary culture, and its traditional significance, all production stages must take place within this geographical boundary.
Monitoring of the product is conducted by a three-member oversight body established under the coordination of the Çerkeş Municipality, with participation of experts from the Çerkeş District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. Inspections are carried out regularly once a year, and may also be conducted whenever necessary or upon complaint.
The criteria used during inspections are as follows:
- Appropriateness of the ingredients used in production.
- Compliance with the established production method.
- Proper use of the term Çerkeş kurabiyesi, its logo, and the Mahreç mark emblem.
The oversight body may utilize services or expertise from public or private institutions or from specialists employed by such institutions during inspection procedures.
