Diyarbakır Chicken Eşkenesi

Diyarbakır Tavuk Eşkenesi is a traditional main dish specific to Diyarbakır cuisine and is protected as a geographical indication under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property. It was officially registered on 20 August 2021, effective from 11 November 2020, following an application submitted by the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

This dish is prepared by boiling chicken meat in salted water and then frying it in butter made from goat’s milk. It is served with pilaf made from Karacadağ rice, which is unique to Diyarbakır. Accompanying it is a fruit compote or stew made from regional fruits: for the compote dried apricots (eşbabiye) or green sour plums (incaz) are used; for the stew black grapes and apricots (karaş) are used. These components reinforce the dish’s connection to Diyarbakır province and its cultural origins.

The standard recipe for six servings requires one chicken, three tablespoons of butter, one teaspoon of salt, and one glass of water. After cleaning and cutting the chicken, it is boiled briefly in a small amount of water and salt, then fried in butter. It is served hot together with pilaf and compote or stew.

All stages of production for Diyarbakır Tavuk Eşkenesi must take place within the boundaries of Diyarbakır province. The dish’s reputation is directly linked to this geographical area.

The geographical indication emblem and the term “Diyarbakır Tavuk Eşkenesi” must appear on the product itself or its packaging. If this is not feasible, the term and emblem must be displayed in a clearly visible location within the production facility.

The production and use of the indication are monitored at least once annually by a control authority established under the coordination of the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and additionally upon complaint or need. The control authority includes expert representatives from institutions such as the Diyarbakır Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, Dicle University, Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality, and Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce. During inspections, compliance of ingredients, adherence to production methods, and correct use of the indication are verified.