Turkish Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture: This Turkish bread has a perfect balance of softness and chewiness, making it ideal for dipping or using as a side dish.
• Quick and easy: The recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and takes only a few hours to prepare from start to finish.
• Customizable: You can experiment with adding herbs or spices like garlic or rosemary for additional flavor.
• Versatile: Great with any dish, Turkish bread can be served alongside dips, stews, soups, or grilled meats.
• Homemade goodness: Making bread at home allows you to enjoy freshly baked bread without any preservatives, just pure, delicious flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 50/50 whole wheat and white)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (not hot – just warm to the touch)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil (plus more for cooking)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready for use.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil (or neutral oil). Stir everything together until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want to maintain a soft texture.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions (or more, if you want smaller loaves). Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it gently with your hands to form a round or oval shape, about 1-inch thick.
6. Second rise: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Cook the bread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with olive oil or neutral oil. Once the pan is hot, cook the bread one at a time, placing each piece in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown spots appear. You can gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it cook evenly.
8. Serve: Once all the pieces are cooked, remove the bread from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving. Slice it and serve with your favorite dips, soups, or meals.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 2 medium-sized flatbreads.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Resting time: 1.5-2 hours (includes rising time)
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes (for all pieces)
• Total time: 2-2.5 hours

Variations

• Herb-infused bread: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
• Cheese-filled: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheese on the dough before folding it over and cooking.
• Whole wheat option: If you prefer a more rustic bread, use 50% whole wheat flour to add more fiber and a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze any leftover Turkish bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the bread in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side, or wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the flour. Allow the yeast to foam for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I bake this bread in the oven instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

Yes, you can bake the bread in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. If you prefer a crispy crust, bake it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before proceeding with the shaping and second rise.

4. Can I use a different type of oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or any neutral oil of your choice.

5. What if my dough is too sticky to knead?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a little at a time, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can result in a dense bread.

6. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture of the bread will be denser. A 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour is a great way to maintain a light texture with the benefits of whole wheat.

7. Can I add toppings to this bread?

You can certainly add toppings such as sesame seeds, nigella seeds, or a sprinkle of salt before cooking for an extra flavor boost.

8. Can I make this bread without yeast?

If you don’t have yeast, you can use baking powder as a substitute, though the texture will be different. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking powder with the flour, skip the yeast, and follow the rest of the recipe.

9. How do I know when the bread is done cooking?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on both sides, and the texture should be soft and slightly chewy. Press gently on the top with a spatula; it should spring back.

10. Can I use a grill or flatbread pan to cook this bread?

Yes, you can cook Turkish bread on a grill or flatbread pan. Just make sure to oil the surface and cook the bread on medium heat for even results.

Conclusion

Turkish bread is a deliciously soft and chewy flatbread that’s perfect for dipping, wrapping, or enjoying on its own. This simple, no-fuss recipe yields fresh bread with minimal ingredients and time, making it ideal for everyday meals or special occasions. With its versatility and comforting texture, Turkish bread will become a staple in your kitchen, whether you’re pairing it with a Mediterranean meal or simply using it as a snack. Enjoy it warm, fresh from the skillet, and savor the goodness of homemade bread!

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