Diyarbakır Kabak Meftunesi

Diyarbakır kabak meftunesi is a traditional dish from Diyarbakır, Türkiye, protected as a "mahreç indication" under Industrial Property Law No. 6769. Registered on August 20, 2021, effective from July 14, 2020, by the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry, it belongs to the “dishes and soups” category and is renowned for its cultural significance in Diyarbakır’s culinary heritage.

The dish is made with meat from one-year-old Karakaş breed lambs and winter squash (Cucurbita moschata), cooked with a tangy sumac juice derived from soaking sumac in water. Its distinctive flavor is enhanced by the addition of crushed garlic after cooking. The preparation method and ingredients are specific to Diyarbakır, establishing a strong connection to the region.

Ingredients (Serves ~6):

• 1.5 kg winter squash
• 0.5 kg lamb meat
• 2 tbsp clarified butter
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup sumac berries
• 4–5 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp chili flakes

Preparation Steps:

1. Sumac is soaked in three parts water to extract its juice, then strained.
2. Winter squash is peeled and cut into large cubes.
3. Lamb meat is washed, salted, and sautéed in clarified butter.
4. Tomato paste and chili flakes are added and mixed.
5. The squash is added, followed by enough water to cover the mixture and the strained sumac juice.
6. After the meat is cooked, crushed garlic is added, and the dish is rested briefly before serving.

Diyarbakır kabak meftunesi is a part of Diyarbakır’s cultural heritage, with its production method and ingredients tied to the region. All production stages must occur within Diyarbakır province to maintain its authenticity and reputation.

Inspections are coordinated by the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry, conducted at least annually by a committee including representatives from the Diyarbakır Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, Dicle University’s Hotel, Restaurant and Catering Services Department (Social Sciences Vocational School), Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality and Diyarbakır Commodity Exchange. The committee verifies ingredient suitability, adherence to the production method and proper use of the "Mahreç Indication" logo. Support from public or private entities may be sought if needed.