Bastirma is a flavorful seasoned, air-dried cured beef enjoyed in Middle Eastern cuisines and more recently the west. The beef is salted and goes through several rounds of dry-&-press processing before being covered in a spice paste called çemen (pronounced with a “ch”) that includes ingredients like chili and garlic. This special spiced layer not only adds flavor and color, but functions in the curing process. The labor-intensive process takes approximately a month to complete thus is much coveted. Bastirma is enjoyed alone as an appetizer or in dishes from breakfasts to dinner. Check out our recipe page for more ideas.