Gaziantep Milk Turmeric Product Description and Distinctive Features: Gaziantep Milky Zerde (Rice Pudding) / Gaziantep Astarlı Sütlaç is a classic Turkish dessert that blends the tastes of traditional rice pudding (sütlaç) and zerde. It is called "astarlı" because the zerde layer is placed on top of the rice pudding, resulting in a visually appealing two-toned sweet treat. This dessert is commonly prepared in Gaziantep during special celebrations. A distinctive feature of Gaziantep Milky Zerde / Gaziantep Astarlı Sütlaç is the use of haspir, which are dried safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) petals, to give color to the zerde, while the rice pudding itself is made without adding sugar. This dessert is unique to the geographical region of Gaziantep. It has been widely documented in various cookbooks focused on Gaziantep cuisine as well as travel guides about the area. Production Method: Rice Pudding Preparation: Ingredients: Milk – 1 liter Rice – 50-70 grams Rose Water – 5-10 grams (optional) Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook it in enough water to cover. Once the rice is boiled, transfer it into the boiling milk. When the rice is fully cooked, add rose water if desired. After simmering for a short time, remove from heat and divide into servings to cool. Zerde Preparation: Ingredients: Rice – 40-60 grams Sugar – 250-400 grams Haspir – 2-3 grams Water – 1 liter Put water in a pot, add the rinsed rice, and cook until tender. After the rice is ready, stir in the sugar and continue boiling for another 5 minutes. Then, strain the haspir that has been soaked in warm water and add it to the mixture. Remove from heat and pour the prepared zerde over the cooled rice pudding in a ratio of two parts rice pudding to one part zerde.