Authentic Turkish Ezme Chili Sauce Recipe (Restaurant-Style)
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ToggleWant the zesty kick of Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce in your kitchen? Now you can with this authentic homemade spicy sauce recipe.
It’s perfect for both Turkish cuisine fans and spice lovers. You can adjust the heat to your liking.
The base is 400g of canned chopped tomatoes. It combines shallots, garlic, ketchup, and white wine vinegar for the perfect balance.
The star ingredient – two bird’s eye chillies – brings the heat. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.
Whether you’re dolloping it on a hearty kebab or using it as a dip, this homemade version lets you enjoy the authentic taste of Turkish street food right at home.
Key Takeaways
- Create authentic Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce at home
- Customize spice levels to suit your taste preferences
- Use just 7 simple ingredients for this flavorful sauce
- Easy to make with a 5-minute prep time
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months
- Versatile sauce for kebabs and other dishes
- Low in calories with only 14 kcal per serving
The Heritage of Turkish Kebab Shop Chilli Sauce
Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce is a key part of authentic kebab sauce. It comes from Turkey’s lively street food culture. This sauce adds a spicy kick to kebabs, making them more exciting.
Origins in Turkish Street Food Culture
The chilli sauce started in Turkey’s street food scene. Street vendors made special sauces to go with their grilled meats. These sauces became a must-try for both locals and visitors.
Why This Sauce Makes Turkish Kebabs Special
The secret of Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce is how it boosts the meat’s taste. It adds a rich flavor that goes well with the kebab’s smoky taste. The mix of spices and chilies makes Turkish kebabs stand out.
Regional Variations Across Turkey
In Turkey, chilli sauce recipes change from place to place. In Istanbul, it’s milder, while Adana’s is spicier. These differences show how diverse Turkish food is, offering many flavors to try.
Region | Sauce Characteristics | Key Ingredients |
---|---|---|
Istanbul | Mild, slightly sweet | Red peppers, garlic, olive oil |
Adana | Spicy, intense | Hot chilies, cumin, tomato paste |
Izmir | Tangy, herbaceous | Green chilies, mint, lemon juice |
Essential Ingredients for Turkish Kebab Shop Chilli Sauce Recipe

Making authentic Turkish chilli sauce at home is simple. It needs just 6 easy-to-find ingredients and takes about 5 minutes. You’ll get 15 tablespoons of sauce, great for kebabs.
Now, let’s look at what makes this sauce special:
Gather all your ingredients:
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp Turkish sweet red pepper paste (tatlı biber salçası) OR tomato puree if you cannot find red pepper paste.
1 tsp pomegranate molasses
1 tsp dried mint
1 small handful fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 large onion (or 2 small onions)
2 cloves garlic (about 1 tsp)
2 tsp pul biber (Turkish pepper flakes/Aleppo pepper flakes)
1 red or green chili (remove seeds for less heat, or leave them in for more heat)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Roughly chop the onion, garlic, and chili. This doesn’t need to be precise, as it will all go in the food processor.
Step-by-Step Turkish Kebab Shop Chilli Sauce Recipe
Ready to make your own chili sauce? This homemade sauce is quick and full of flavor. Let’s start making this authentic Turkish delight.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Place all the ingredients into a food processor. This includes the chopped tomatoes, red pepper paste (or tomato puree), pomegranate molasses, dried mint, parsley, chopped onion, garlic, pul biber, chopped chili, and olive oil.
Step 2: Blend
Blitz the ingredients in the food processor to your desired consistency.
Some people prefer a completely smooth sauce, while others like a slightly chunkier texture.
Start with a few short pulses and check the texture, then continue blending until you’re happy with it.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce. Add salt if needed. Turkish red pepper paste can be quite salty, so you may not need to add anything.
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Add a pinch more pul biber or a small piece of fresh chili if you want more heat.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the chili sauce to a serving bowl or jar.
This sauce is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The flavors will meld and deepen over time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Guide
Turkish spicy sauce is a great addition to many dishes. It’s perfect for both traditional kebabs and new recipes. This sauce brings out the best in any meal.
Traditional Kebab Combinations
The sauce is a hit with classic kebabs. It goes well with doner, shish, and kofta. For a tasty meal, put your kebabs in a warm pitta and add the sauce.
A serving has about 437 calories. It’s a good mix of carbs, protein, fat, and fiber:
- 46g carbohydrates
- 24g protein
- 11g fat
- 6g fiber
Modern Fusion Applications
This sauce is not just for kebabs. Use it as a zesty dip for grilled veggies or on sandwiches. Its versatility makes it great for many dishes.

Temperature and Timing Considerations
For the best taste, serve the sauce at room temperature. Grill kebabs for 10-15 minutes or bake at 200°C for 20-30 minutes. Add the sauce just before serving to keep it fresh.
Cooking Method | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
BBQ/Griddle | High heat | 10-15 minutes |
Oven | 200°C (180°C Fan) | 20-30 minutes |
Mastering Your Homemade Turkish Chilli Sauce
Making your own Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce at home opens up a world of flavors.
It lets you make your kebabs as good as top-rated shops like Rüyam Gemüse Kebab 2, with a perfect 5/5 taste rating. Making your own sauce can also save money, with kebab prices ranging from €4.50 to €10.
This Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce recipe is very versatile. You can adjust the heat and ingredients to your liking. Whether you want a milder sauce or a spicy kick, you can make it just right. This means your sauce will be perfect for kebabs and many other dishes.
Embracing Turkish cuisine brings the lively street food culture into your kitchen. As you get better at making your spicy sauce, it will add a special touch to your meals.
It’s like turning a simple €6.90 Gemüse Kebab into a 5-star dish. So, get ready to experiment with your Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce recipe. Your taste buds will love it!
What are the key ingredients in Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce?
The main ingredients are red chili peppers, garlic, and tomato paste. You’ll also find olive oil, vinegar, salt, and spices like cumin and oregano. Some recipes add paprika or red pepper flakes for extra heat and taste.
How spicy is Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce?
The spiciness can vary. Traditional recipes are moderately spicy. You can make it hotter or milder by changing the chili pepper amount.
Can I make Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
What dishes can I pair with Turkish kebab shop chilli sauce beside kebabs?
It’s great with kebabs, but also with grilled veggies, falafel, and sandwiches. Use it as a wrap sauce or a dip for fries or bread. It’s also good in salads or grain bowls.
Can I use dried chili peppers instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried chili peppers work well as a substitute. Soak them in warm water before using. Use less because they pack more flavor and heat than fresh ones.