Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and yogurt.
- Mix everything together using a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much, as the dough should remain soft.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
- Roll out the dough into an oval or round shape, about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick. If you prefer smaller pieces, divide the dough into two or more portions before shaping.
- Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Create the Pide Pattern:
- Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, gently press into the dough to create an indented criss-cross or diamond pattern across the top. This is a traditional pattern for Turkish bread.
7. Apply the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water. Brush the egg wash over the surface of the dough. This gives the bread a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and nigella seeds on top if desired for added flavor and texture.
8. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake the bread for about 15-18 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and puffed up. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside stews, or using as a base for sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Turkish Bread:
- Add Steam for Crispier Crust: To create a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of your oven while baking. The steam will help create that perfect crusty exterior.
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add a bit of garlic or rosemary to the dough for a unique flavor twist. You can also top the bread with za’atar or sumac for extra flavor.
- Freeze for Later: This bread freezes well! Simply let it cool completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and freeze. To reheat, thaw it at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.
- Make it Flat or Puffy: Depending on how thick you shape the dough, you can create a flat version (perfect for wraps or kebabs) or a thicker, more puffy version (great for dipping and sandwiches).