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.

2. Preparing the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up.

3. Shaping the Bread:

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into two equal portions.

Roll each portion into an oval or rectangular shape, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. You can use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.