Isot pepper is a dried Turkish pepper cultivated in the Urfa region of Turkey. It has a smoky raisin-like taste.

Isot pepper is technically a red pepper and is less spicy than many other chile peppers but provides a more lasting heat. It is traditionally used in Turkey in meat and savory foods. Because of its fruity overtones, it is becoming popular in to use in sweet dishes in North America.

Flavors: Sweet, smoky and citric aromas give way to a slight, building heat. Textures and notes of leather and tobacco add to the complexity of this pepper.

Use: Use on grilled meats such as kebabs and grilled chicken, and serve with a cool yogurt sauce to temper the heat. For an exotic boost, add some isot pepper to a batch of traditional oatmeal-raisin cookies--the dried fruit quality will enhance the raisins, while the smokiness and heat will lend an air of extravagance.