Article: Turkish Pide – A Delightful Fusion of Flavors.

  Turkish Pide – A Delightful Fusion of Flavors.

Turkish Pide, often referred to as "Turkish pizza," is a delectable and versatile dish that originates from Turkey. This savory bread is characterized by its boat-shaped dough, which is generously filled with a variety of ingredients. The beauty of pide lies in its versatility, allowing for a range of fillings from minced meat and vegetables to cheese and herbs. In Turkey, pide is a beloved street food, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Its popularity has spread internationally, with adaptations appearing in various countries, including the USA.

The dough of Turkish pide is typically made from simple ingredients such as flour, yeast, water, and salt. Once the dough is prepared and allowed to rise, it is shaped into an oval or boat-like form. The fillings are then added, and the edges of the dough are folded over slightly to create a crust that holds the ingredients in place. Baked until golden and crisp, the result is a mouthwatering combination of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center.

Recipe: Turkish Pide

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or feta cheese
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven to heat.
4. In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in bell pepper, tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each piece into an oval shape on a floured surface. Transfer to parchment paper.
6. Spread the filling evenly on each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the edges over to create a boat shape.
7. Brush the edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.
8. Carefully transfer the pide with parchment paper onto the heated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden and crispy.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Turkish pide, a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures!