🍞 Turkish Bread (Pide Ekmeği)
Ingredients:
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3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
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1/4 cup plain yogurt (room temperature)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 1/2 teaspoons salt
For Topping:
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1 egg yolk
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1 tablespoon milk or water
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Sesame seeds and/or nigella seeds (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Activate the yeast:
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In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the dough:
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In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
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Add yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Stir to form a dough.
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Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5–6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Let rise:
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Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).
4. Shape the bread:
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Punch down the dough. Turn it out and divide into 2 equal portions.
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Roll each piece into an oval or round shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
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Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Second rise:
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Cover lightly with a towel and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
6. Decorate:
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Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
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Mix egg yolk with milk or water and brush over dough.
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Use your fingers or a blunt knife to make a crisscross diamond pattern (don’t cut all the way through).
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Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if using.
7. Bake:
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Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed.
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Let cool slightly before serving.
✅ Serving Ideas:
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Serve warm with olive oil, labneh, or meze.
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Use as a base for wraps or to accompany grilled meat and vegetables.
Would you like a stuffed version, a no-yeast quick version, or one adapted for a pizza oven?