Tyrkisk peber

Tyrkisk Peber is a Finnish confectionery product known for its strong, salty licorice flavor combined with ammonium chloride (salmiakki). It was originally developed and produced by the Danish company Perelly in the 1970s but is now manufactured by the Fazer company, one of the largest corporations in the Finnish food industry. Tyrkisk Peber is Turkish for "Turkish pepper," reflecting the candy's spicy taste, which is reminiscent of the hot spices traded through Turkey from the East.

History

The creation of Tyrkisk Peber in the 1970s marked a significant innovation in the Nordic confectionery market. Its unique combination of licorice and ammonium chloride was an instant hit, particularly in countries with a tradition of consuming salty licorice, such as Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. In 1993, Fazer, a company with a long history dating back to 1891, acquired the brand, further expanding its popularity across the Nordic countries and beyond.

Description

Tyrkisk Peber is characterized by its hard, black exterior and a powder center that delivers a burst of salty licorice flavor. The candy is available in several varieties, including original, firewood (extra strong), and volcano (with a red pepper center), catering to different preferences for spiciness and strength. The product is typically sold in bags, and its distinctive packaging, featuring a red and black color scheme with flames, hints at its fiery taste.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Tyrkisk Peber include sugar, glucose syrup, ammonium chloride, licorice extract, and salt. The specific recipe varies slightly between different versions of the candy to adjust the intensity of the flavor and the level of spiciness. The inclusion of ammonium chloride, a common ingredient in Nordic licorice candies, gives Tyrkisk Peber its characteristic salty taste, which is often described as an acquired taste for those not familiar with salmiakki.

Cultural Significance

Tyrkisk Peber holds a special place in the culinary traditions of the Nordic countries. It is not only enjoyed as a candy but also used as an ingredient in various recipes, including ice cream, vodka, and even in cooking. The candy's unique flavor profile has made it a popular choice for those looking to experiment with traditional licorice flavors in new and innovative ways.

See Also

• Fazer
• Licorice
• Salmiakki
• Finnish cuisine