Tepsi Kebabı
Hatay's communal tray kebab — a generous mixture of finely minced meat, onions, parsley, and spices is pressed into a large round copper tray, topped with sliced tomatoes and pepper paste sauce, and baked in a wood-fired stone oven until caramelized and bubbling. The high heat creates a beautiful crust on top while keeping the meat juicy underneath. Cut into wedges and served directly from the tray with fresh bread — this is the taste of Hatay family gatherings.
Cultural Significance
Tepsi Kebabı is the dish that brings Hatay families together. The large tray is meant to be shared, and eating from the same tepsi is a symbol of togetherness and hospitality. In Hatay, every neighborhood has a communal stone oven where families bring their prepared trays for baking. The dish traces its roots to the Arab culinary influence on the region and has been made the same way for centuries, representing the continuity of Hatay's multicultural traditions.
Key Ingredients
Preparation Method
Finely minced lamb is kneaded with grated onions, chopped parsley, tomato paste, pepper paste, pul biber, cumin, and salt. The mixture is pressed flat into a large round copper tray, about 1 cm thick. Sliced tomatoes are arranged on top, and a sauce of tomato paste and olive oil is spread over. Baked in a preheated wood-fired stone oven at high heat for 20-25 minutes until the top is caramelized and the meat is cooked through. Cut into wedges and served from the tray.