Maras Biber

Maras Biber typically offers a moderate, building heat that ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 Scoville Heat Units, making it milder than cayenne but hotter than standard grocery store pepper flakes. It is prized for a fruity, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor profile rather than pure heat. The flakes are also traditionally coarse and slightly moist.

While both are Turkish-style chili flakes known for their fruity profiles, Maras Biber comes from Kahramanmaras and tends to be slightly hotter and more oily than Aleppo pepper. Aleppo usually has a more pronounced saltiness and a raisin-like tang, originating from Syria. Both are typically made from Capsicum annuum fruits that are dried, salted, and coarsely ground.

To preserve its naturally oily texture and robust flavor, Maraş biber should be stored in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat. Keeping it in a cool, dark pantry will maintain its quality for up to a year. Some enthusiasts store it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life even further.

Maras Biber is incredibly versatile and can be sprinkled over eggs, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and dips like hummus. Its mild heat and fruity undertones make it an excellent finishing spice for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. You can also blend it into olive oil to create a flavorful chili dipping sauce for breads.