Turkish Bread

Turkish bread, also known as “pide,” is a delightful staple in Turkish cuisine. Its light, fluffy texture and slightly chewy crust make it perfect for dipping in sauces or serving alongside meals. Here’s a detailed recipe for making Turkish bread from scratch:

INGREDIENTS:

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon instant yeast

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup lukewarm water

1/4 cup olive oil

For the Topping (optional):

Sesame seeds or nigella seeds

Chopped parsley or thyme

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center.

Pour the lukewarm water and olive oil into the well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet using a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. You can add a bit more flour if needed.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size …