Turkish bread, also known as pide, is a soft and airy flatbread with a slightly crispy crust, often enjoyed with a variety of dips or as an accompaniment to savory meals. Its distinctive flavor comes from a combination of simple ingredients and traditional baking methods. This recipe creates a loaf that’s perfect for sharing or using as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg yolk (for glazing)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined, then knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a round or oval shape. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Glaze and top: Brush the tops of the dough with the egg yolk, then sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired, for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and serve: Allow the Turkish bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with dips, spreads, or alongside your favorite Turkish dishes.
Enjoy your freshly baked Turkish bread!