This recipe yields a soft, airy, and slightly chewy Turkish bread, perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or enjoying on its own. It’s traditionally made during Ramadan, but can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 3.5 cups (approx. 440 grams) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1.5 teaspoons instant dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1.5 cups (350 ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
- Sesame seeds and/or nigella seeds (black onion seeds)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In the same bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix well.
- Form the Dough:
- Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- if needed add a little more flour, until the dough is not to sticky.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly flour a baking sheet.
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
- Gently flatten the dough into a round or oval shape, about 1-inch thick.
- use your fingertips to press patterns into the top of the dough. Creating shallow dimples.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk or water.
- Brush the egg wash over the surface of the bread.
- Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and/or nigella seeds.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- let cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
- Kneading the dough properly is essential for a soft and chewy texture.
- You can adjust the baking time depending on the size and thickness of your bread.
- Adding a oven safe pan with water, to the bottom of the oven during baking, will create steam, and help with a great crust.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Turkish Bread!