Urfa Biber – Slow Heat with Smoky Depth
The Pride of Turkish Cuisine
Urfa Biber, also known as Isot pepper, hails from the Şanlıurfa region of southeastern Turkey. These deep red-to-black chilli flakes are known for their smoky aroma, mild, lingering heat, and naturally oily texture. After drying under the sun, the chillies are sweated overnight, wrapped to trap moisture and allow natural oils to develop — giving Urfa its signature soft, sticky consistency and rich, raisin-like depth.
Used across Turkish and Middle Eastern cooking, Urfa is perfect for slow-roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and anywhere you want warmth without overpowering fire.
Flavour Profile & Heat Level
Urfa Biber is subtle, complex, and incredibly moreish — a chilli for depth, not shock.
-
Heat Level: Mild to Medium
-
Scoville Rating: 5,000 – 10,000 SHU
-
Flavour Notes: Smoky, earthy, raisin-like, slightly tangy with slow-building warmth
Culinary Uses of Urfa Biber
This is a finishing chilli and a flavour builder. Urfa’s soft flakes blend beautifully into rich dishes, or can be sprinkled straight onto food for warmth and complexity.
Ideal for:
-
Lamb & beef dishes – Adds smoky sweetness and gentle heat
-
Grilled veg & aubergines – A perfect pairing for Mediterranean-style plates
-
Dips & meze – Blend into yoghurt, hummus, or labneh for a warming kick
-
Tomato sauces – Urfa adds body and colour without dominating
-
Eggs & breakfast – Sprinkle on poached eggs or into shakshuka
Its slightly oily texture helps it infuse evenly, delivering consistent flavour with a touch of richness.
Why Buy Urfa Biber from CHILLIESontheWEB?
Our Urfa Biber is authentically produced in Turkey, using traditional sun-drying and sweating methods to deliver the full, complex flavour this chilli is known for. Oily, soft, and rich, it arrives ready to use in a wide range of savoury dishes.
If you love depth, subtle heat, and smoky complexity — Urfa is your new best friend in the spice cupboard.