Marmarabirlik Super Natural Oiled Brine Black Olives M 1000g

These are naturally brine-cured black table olives from Marmarabirlik, the olive cooperative union whose jars carry the line "1954'ten günümüze" (from 1954 to today). "Yağlı salamura" describes olives cured in brine the traditional way and finished with a little oil, which gives them a soft, glossy and savoury character. The jar holds 1015 g net, of which 1000 g is olives once drained, graded size M at roughly 261-290 olives per kilogram. The pack carries a "koruyucu içermez" (contains no preservatives) badge.

On a Turkish table these olives belong on the breakfast spread beside white cheese, tomato, cucumber, boiled eggs and fresh bread with a glass of tea. They are just as good chopped into salads, folded into pide or poğaça dough, scattered over pizza or served as a simple meze with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of thyme or chilli flakes and a squeeze of lemon. If you prefer a milder saltiness, rinse them briefly under cold water before serving.

Keep the sealed jar in a cool, dry place; the manufacturer's catalogue gives it an 18-month shelf life. After opening, keep the olives covered in their brine, store the jar in the refrigerator and enjoy them within a short time.