Kerebiç: A Sweet Tale from a Flavorful History

Kerebiç is not just a dessert that melts in your mouth; it is also a special treat from Mersin with a deep-rooted history and unique characteristics.

The History of Kerebiç

Kerebiç is a special dessert unique to Mersin that stands out not only for its melt-in-your-mouth taste but also for its deep-rooted history and unique characteristics. So, where does the story of this flavor begin?

Birth in the Ottoman Palace

The history of Kerebiç dates back to the 15th century. It is known to have been included in Ottoman cuisine and served to sultans and important statesmen in the palace kitchen during that period. This dessert, also known as “kerebiçe”, was appreciated in the palace kitchen with its flavor and elegant presentation.

Spreading Over Time

Over time, kerebiç began to spread among the people, crossing the borders of the palace kitchen. Especially popular in Mediterranean cuisine, kerebiç began to be known by different names in different regions.

A Flavor Unique to Mersin

The fact that kerebiç became a dessert unique to Mersin dates back to the 19th century. Arab-origin families who migrated to Mersin brought this dessert with them as well. Over time, kerebiç, which became widespread in Mersin, became one of the symbols of the city. Especially taking its place on Mersin tables during Ramadan and Eid, kerebiç is one of the most popular desserts of Mersin cuisine.

Kerebiç Today

Kerebiç is still considered one of the most important flavors of Mersin today. Registered as a geographical indication by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office in 2019, kerebiç has the distinction of being Mersin’s first registered product.

While preserving its traditional flavor, kerebiç, which is also interpreted with different flavors today, is an ideal dessert for those looking for a flavor unique to Mersin.

Where is it Famous?

Kerebiç is a dessert unique to the Tarsus district of Mersin. Especially taking its place on tables during Ramadan and Eid, kerebiç has become one of the symbols of Mersin.

Preparation and Cooking Process

Kerebiç fundamentally consists of a soft dough with a sweet filling. Here is a step-by-step guide to its preparation:

Ingredients

• Flour
• Margarine or butter
• Powdered sugar
• Starch
• Crushed pistachios or walnuts

Dough Preparation

1. Mix flour and margarine (or butter) in a deep bowl until it reaches a sandy texture.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead into a soft dough.
3. Let the prepared dough rest in the refrigerator for a while.

Filling Preparation

1. Mix starch with a little water and cook, stirring constantly until it thickens.
2. Add powdered sugar to the cooked starch and allow the mixture to cool.
3. Once cooled, add crushed pistachios or walnuts to the starch mixture to complete the filling.

Baking Kerebiç

1. Break off small pieces of the rested dough and flatten them in your palm.
2. Place a portion of the filling in the center of each flattened dough piece, seal it, and shape into a round form.
3. Arrange the prepared kerebiç on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown.
4. Sprinkle plenty of powdered sugar over the hot kerebiç when they come out of the oven.