Gaziantep Leblebi Soup

Gaziantep lebeniye soup is a traditional soup specific to Gaziantep cuisine, prepared with strained yogurt, lamb mince, chickpeas, and rice. “Gaziantep Lebeniye Soup / Antep Lebeniye Soup” is registered as a geographical indication under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property and was granted geographical indication protection on 15 May 2021. The registration was carried out by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, and the geographical boundary of the product is limited to the province of Gaziantep.

The distinctive feature of lebeniye soup lies in the quality of its ingredients and the application of Gaziantep-specific craftsmanship in its production method. This soup has a long-standing tradition in the regional cuisine and has been featured in various cookbooks, promotional films, and scholarly publications. This demonstrates the product’s inseparable link to its geographical origin.

The main ingredients of the soup are strained yogurt, lamb mince, chickpeas, rice, egg, olive oil, clarified butter, dried mint, and black pepper. The production process can be summarized as follows:

• The mince is sautéed; washed rice, salt, pre-boiled chickpeas, and water are added and brought to a boil.
• In a separate pot, strained yogurt, egg, and olive oil are gently cooked over low heat; this mixture is slowly added to the meat mixture.
• Dried mint and black pepper are heated in clarified butter and drizzled over the soup before serving hot.

The quantities of ingredients are defined within specific ranges, and the production process requires local expertise.

The production of Gaziantep lebeniye soup may only be carried out within the boundaries of Gaziantep province. This condition has been established to preserve the traditional knowledge and skills underlying the production method. All stages of production must be completed within the geographical boundary.

The production and marketing of the product are controlled through inspections coordinated by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality. The inspection body consists of expert representatives from the Municipality, the Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Gaziantep Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen. Inspections are conducted at least once a year, or as needed or upon complaint. Inspection criteria include ingredient suitability, adherence to the production method, product appearance, and correct use of the geographical indication mark.

The designation “Gaziantep Lebeniye Soup / Antep Lebeniye Soup” and the geographical indication emblem must appear on the product packaging or directly on the product. If this is not possible, they must be displayed in a clearly visible location within the establishment.