Like so many of our blends, this one was developed at the prompting of one of our customers
(Click here to get the story behind this blend.)



Our Old Istanbul Blend is full of clever touches that one
rarely sees in American or European Blends.


This blend is full of delightful surprise!

So, let's start with the Texture.

By using shards of Safflower (the orange threads) and whole spices
the blend takes on an interesting color and graininess that makes it
a great choice for a marinade, as well as a rub.


Freshness:
The blend gets a pleasant fresh quality from the use of Pink Peppercorn rather than
traditional mint. This sense of restraint is further expressed with use of whole Coriander.
Both of these spices act to subdue and smooth the bold flavors of the key ingredient Isot Chili.

Compelling Layers of Flavor:
The Isot Chili is the star of this blend and asserts itself in every aspect of the blend, from its oily
texture,to its smoky aroma laced with notes of chocolate.

Like its cousin, Marash, Isot is grown in Turkey.
After it is harvested, it is wrapped and sweated at night to produce a swarthy, dark maroon chili
that is distinguished by its layered flavor.

This inspired ingredient choice creates the key flavor notes of the Old Istanbul Blend
while the supporting spices bring out specific flavor notes of sweetness, smokiness and chocolate. 

With such a robust flavor resume, Isot is traditionally used to flavor lamb.
But it's novel flavor profile of raisin, chocolate and tobacco notes make
it a standout base flavor for roasted meats which  can be finished with a sweet sauce,
a side of chutney or a savory pan gravy.  (Creative cooks will love this feature.)

In the US, Isot can be  hard to find. So, it is rare to find a blend made and sold in the US that uses it.
But once you taste and smell this blend you will know why Isot is considered one of the most flavorful
chilies in the world.
 

The Ultimate Fusion Dish
Roasted Pork Tender Loin
rubbed with Old Istanbul Blend.
It's finished with a Apple Chutney
served over Almond Basmati Rice.

 
Ingredients: Chilies, Organic Oregano, Pink Peppercorns, Organic Coriander. Organic Safflower, Raisins.
Sealed in a vapor barrier pouch, Net Weight: 1.5 ounces, 42 grams, Hand Made in US.
Heat Level: Spicy with medium heat.