bread

Posted on January 25, 2025

Turkish Bread (Pide) is soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for dipping or pairing with various dishes. Here’s a simple recipe to make authentic Turkish bread at home:

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• 1/4 cup yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)
• 1 egg (for brushing on top, optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.

2. Mix the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center.
• Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well, along with the olive oil and yogurt (if using). Mix everything together until it forms a rough dough.

3. Knead the Dough:

• Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much.
• Alternatively, you can knead the dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.

4. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
• Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions (depending on how large you want the bread to be).
• Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten each ball into a round or oval shape, about 1/2-inch thick. You can use your hands to gently stretch the dough or roll it out with a rolling pin.

6. Second Rise:

• Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

7. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a pizza stone, preheat that as well for a crispier crust.

8. Add Egg Wash (Optional):

• Beat the egg and brush it over the surface of the dough to give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for an extra flavor boost.

9. Bake:

• Place the bread in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
• If using a pizza stone, the bread will bake more evenly and get a crispier bottom.

10. Serve:

• Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with a little olive oil for added flavor and a glossy finish.
• Allow the bread to cool slightly, then slice and serve.

Tips:

• Flavor Variations: For a savory touch, you can sprinkle the dough with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic before baking.
• Storage: This bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven.
• Make it a flatbread: For a thinner, crispier version, roll the dough thinner before baking.

Enjoy your Turkish bread with dips, stews, or as an accompaniment to meals like kebabs or mezes! Let me know if you need any variations or have questions about the recipe.