Antep Zahter Stream


Description and Distinctive Features:

Antep Zahter Tea/Gaziantep Zahter Tea; a product prepared using the aerial parts of plants known by the Latin species name Thymbra spicata L., also called zahter, karabaş thyme, sater, or zater in the region. In its preparation, dried zahter plants and hot water are used. Optionally, it can be consumed with the addition of white powdered sugar, honey, and even lemon.

Antep Zahter Stream

Antep Zahter Tea/Gaziantep Zahter Tea is one of the significant products in the culinary culture of Gaziantep. It is known for its recognizability and reputation tied to the geographical boundary where it is produced.The zahter plant has egg/oval-shaped leaves and beautiful-smelling flowers in shades of lilac-pink-white. The specific thyme taste and aroma are achieved by passing the parts of the zahter plant through hot water using a tea strainer or steeping.

Production Method:

Antep Zahter Tea/Gaziantep Zahter Tea Production Stages: For the production of Antep Zahter Tea/Gaziantep Zahter Tea, zahter plants grown in the Gaziantep province are preferred. Zahter plants are typically harvested around May in the Gaziantep province. The branches of the zahter plant are cut and placed in containers suitable for contact with food. They are carefully washed with enough water. The cleaned parts of the plant, with the water drained or removed, are placed on food-grade displays in clean environments with sufficient air circulation and no direct sunlight, and they are dried for approximately 1 week. Additionally, the drying process can be performed using suitable techniques, tools, and equipment. Once dried, the zahter is ground and prepared, resulting in a mixture of leaves, flowers, and shoot tips separated from the stems, ready for consumption.

Storage Conditions and Packaging: Dried zahter plants, following minimum technical and hygienic requirements, are packaged in suitable packaging that is in contact with food or in bulk, and presented to consumers with label information compliant with relevant food regulations. The dried zahter plant is stored in clean and dry places, free from odors, and in cool environments without direct exposure to sunlight, from the packaging/labeling stage until it reaches the consumer.

Preparation and Service: For serving Antep Zahter Tea/Gaziantep Zahter Tea, the dried zahter plants are placed in a strainer and passed through hot water, or the tea is prepared by steeping in hot water. As a usage guide, approximately 2 grams of zahter plant is recommended for an average 200 ml tea cup, and if steeping, it should be left in hot water for 3-4 minutes. Optionally, it can be consumed with the addition of white powdered sugar, honey, or lemon, according to consumer preference.