Turkish Pide

It was a chilly evening when I first discovered the magic of Turkish Pide. I remember walking through a vibrant market, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, captivating me as I wandered from stall to stall. My curiosity was piqued when I spotted a cozy little eatery boasting all kinds of pide. I was drawn in by the sight of golden-brown crusts, beautifully shaped into boats, filled with savory toppings, and topped with an egg. With every bite, I was transported to Turkey itself, savoring the rich flavors and textures. That night ignited my passion for making Turkish Pide at home, and now, I can’t resist sharing this delightful experience with you. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.

What to Gather for Turkish Pide

When it comes to making Turkish Pide, choosing the right ingredients is crucial. Each element plays a role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s take a look at the key players in this delightful dish.

• 300g All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our dough, providing the necessary structure and texture.
• 20ml Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps create a tender crust.
• 1 tsp Sugar: Feeds the yeast for a better rise.
• 4g Dry Yeast: The key ingredient for a light and airy dough.
• ½ tsp Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
• 150ml Water: Brings the dough together, hydrating the flour.
• Tomato Sauce: A flavorful base for the toppings.
• Mozzarella: Provides that melty, gooey goodness.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp flavor that complements the other cheeses.
• Blue Cheese: A bold addition that elevates the flavor profile.
• 4 Eggs: A traditional topping that enhances the dish further.
• Sesame Seeds (white & black): A decorative finishing touch that adds texture.

How to Make Turkish Pide

Making Turkish Pide is an enjoyable process that starts with preparing the dough and ends with a deliciously baked creation. So let’s dive into the steps!

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix the dry yeast and sugar with the lukewarm water. Cover with a dry towel and let it sit for 10 minutes or until frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures your yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.
2. Make the Dough: Now, add the flour, salt, and olive oil into the yeast mixture. Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook until it becomes smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a shower cap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 40 minutes until it doubles in size. You can use the proofing function of your oven if available.
3. Prepare the Oven: While the dough is rising, place a baking stone on the middle rack of your oven and preheat it to 250°C (480°F). The baking stone ensures even heat distribution and helps to create a crispy crust.
4. Shape the Pide: When the dough is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into an oval about 25 cm (10 inches) long on parchment paper.
5. Add Cheese Edge and Shape: Place small pieces of mozzarella along the border of each oval. Fold the edges inward to seal in the cheese, forming a rim. Pinch the ends to create a traditional boat shape.
6. Add Toppings: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce inside each boat. Sprinkle a mix of grated mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese on top. Finally, crack an egg into the center of each pide for that authentic touch.
7. Finish and Bake: Brush the edges of the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Using a pizza peel or the back of a tray, carefully slide each pide (on its parchment) onto the hot baking stone. Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the egg is cooked to your liking. While one pide is baking, you can prepare the next one for an efficient cooking process.
8. Serve: Once baked, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, slice, and enjoy! The fresh herbs add a lovely aroma and flavor that elevates your Turkish Pide experience.

Expert Tips about Turkish Pide

Making Turkish Pide can be a fun and rewarding experience, but these expert tips can help you elevate your dish even further:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze Turkish Pide before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Turkish Pide pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a yogurt-based sauce on the side.
• Variations: Feel free to mix and match fillings. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or even ground meat if you like.
• Serving: Serve Turkish Pide hot from the oven for the best experience. A sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving adds a lovely touch.

How to Enjoy Turkish Pide

When it comes to serving Turkish Pide, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some wonderful ideas:

• Perfect for Lunch or Dinner: Turkish Pide is a fantastic choice whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner. It’s filling enough to satisfy but light enough not to weigh you down.
• Great for Gatherings: Share Turkish Pide at parties or gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in larger batches and will surely impress your guests.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of fresh salad, garlic yogurt sauce, or pickled vegetables to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pide.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy Turkish Pide during gatherings like Ramadan or family dinners, where sharing food is cherished.
• Storage Tips: If you have any leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in a hot pan or oven to bring back the crispiness of the crust.
• Take It to Go: Turkish Pide makes for great lunchbox fare. Pack it up for picnics or work lunches for a treat that’s sure to impress!

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Turkish Pide lies in its incredible flavors and the joy it brings to the table. With its crispy crust and delightful fillings, it’s a dish that captures the spirit of sharing and togetherness. I encourage you to try making it at home; it’s a fun and rewarding culinary adventure that will surely impress your loved ones. Enjoy the process, and savor each delicious bite!

Turkish Pide

The ultimate comfort food, Turkish Pide features a crispy crust filled with a savory mix of cheeses and topped with an egg. This easy weeknight dinner is customizable to fit your cravings. Perfect for sharing, it's a delicious way to bring family and friends together!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Turkish

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 300 g All-Purpose Flour
• 20 ml Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 4 g Dry Yeast
• ½ tsp Salt
• 150 ml Water
• to taste Tomato Sauce
• to taste Mozzarella
• to taste Cheddar Cheese
• to taste Blue Cheese
• 4 Eggs
• to taste Sesame Seeds

Equipment

• Oven
• Peeler
• Grater
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix the dry yeast and sugar with the lukewarm water. Cover with a dry towel and let it sit for 10 minutes or until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil into the yeast mixture. Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once done, place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 40 minutes.
3. Prepare the Oven: While the dough is rising, place a baking stone on the middle rack of your oven and preheat it to 250°C (480°F).
4. Shape the Pide: Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval about 25 cm (10 inches) long on parchment paper.
5. Add Cheese Edge and Shape: Place small pieces of mozzarella along the border of each oval. Fold the edges inward to seal in the cheese, forming a rim. Pinch the ends to create a traditional boat shape.
6. Add Toppings: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce inside each boat. Sprinkle a mix of grated mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese on top. Crack an egg into the center of each pide.
7. Finish and Bake: Brush the edges of the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until golden.
8. Serve: Once baked, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, slice, and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: You can customize the cheese mix based on your preference, adding options like feta or kasseri.
• Tip 2: Turkish Pide is best enjoyed fresh from the oven but can be reheated to restore crispness.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!