Mahaleb
Mahaleb, a species of cherry tree, is known for its fragrant seeds, which are commonly used as a spice in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan cuisines. The seeds have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, with hints of almond and cherry.
Mahaleb trees are native to the Mediterranean region, and can be found in parts of Turkey, Greece, and other neighboring countries. The seeds are harvested in late summer, and are often dried before being used in cooking.
In addition to its culinary uses, mahaleb is also used in traditional medicine, particularly in the Middle East, for a variety of purposes including treating digestive problems, coughs, and as a sedative. The bark and leaves of the mahaleb tree have also been used in some cultures to make a tea-like beverage.
Majority of the mahaleb is growing in the southeastern regions of Turkiye and being exported to the world. These regions has the best climate and soil conditions for the highest quality of mahaleb to grow.
The harvest season of mahaleb begins from May until the end of June. The mahaleb harvested in Turkiye is wild collection. The spring rains helps revealing the amazing flavor, aroma and maximize the quality of the product.