Çukurören village begins seasonal drying of ancestral red peppers

In the village of Çukurören, located 10 kilometers from Bilecik, the seasonal drying of hot red peppers has begun. The peppers, which were granted a geographical indication by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office in 2020, are hung on walls, balconies, and roofs for drying, creating a distinct red landscape that attracts photographers from across the country.

The production relies on ancestral seeds brought to the region by immigrants approximately 160 to 170 years ago. Following harvest, local women carefully string the peppers onto ropes to dry. Once dried and ground, the product is distributed to various cities, primarily in the Marmara and Aegean regions.

Village Headman Muhittin Dündar noted that the quality of the pepper is tied to the local soil and water. He reported that production is better this year compared to last, with prices increasing by approximately 50 percent. The peppers are now shipped via cargo to customers throughout Turkey.