A Taste of….Pul Biber

During my trip to Turkey in February, I tried quite a bit of pul biber, a smoky, crushed red pepper similar to red pepper flakes you find here in the states but it's slightly damp with a subtle fruit flavor. Pul biber is made from the aleppo pepper and is regularly seen on tables at Turkish restaurants, either in a shaker or a small tin bowl. As with most things, you'll have to taste the various kinds to see which one you like best. In the U.S., pul biber can be found at your local Mediterranean market. I brought some home and have been adding it to just about everything. The flavors instantly transport me to Turkey.

I also brought back these wonderful tinned copper condiment dishes. They are perfect for holding spices, dips or sauces. The crescent moon on the lid is functional, but I think it adds another element of beauty to the design. You can find them here. 

The Story Behind » Burmese Lacquer Bowls

 

Our vintage Burmese lacquer bowls, still in excellent condition, were originally used for meals, holding soups and curries. I found these in the attic of dealer I work with in Northern Thailand. They were covered in dust and I imagine they had never been used due to the proprietor labels that were still affixed. Many of them have inscriptions that often are the signature of the maker.

The bowls are made of coiled bamboo and then lacquered in varying shades of red and/or toffee brown with accent colors for the designs. The flared rim bowls are typical of mid-twentieth century ware of Ava. Marked by paper stamps from the original proprietors, the labels, affixed to the inside, are easily removable if you choose to use them for dining. Click here to see all of the great bowls and other lacquer pieces including offering vessels and trays.