Pide (Flatbread)

pide_(flatbread)

Turkish Pide, commonly referred to as Turkish flatbread, is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed by people in Turkey for centuries. The dish is popular in Turkey and is often served at various events and occasions, such as weddings, holidays, and celebrations.

The Turkish Pide is a type of bread which is soft in texture, chewy and full of flavour. It is usually baked in oval-shaped or rectangular-shaped loaves, and its toppings can range from the simplest of toppings like olive oil and herbs to more elaborate ones using meats, cheeses, and veggies. This bread is perfect for salads and dips, but it can also be eaten on its own as a snack.

There are many different variations of Turkish pide, each with its unique spin on this traditional bread. However, the classic version of Turkish pide is made with a combination of wheat flour, yeast, and water. The dough is kneaded by hand for about 10 minutes and then left to rest for at least 30 minutes before being shaped and rolled out over a floured surface.

Once the dough has been shaped, the toppings are added. The classic Turkish pide topping includes minced lamb, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and spices. However, various other meats, cheeses and vegetables can be added as the toppings as per personal preference.

Traditionally, Turkish pide is baked in brick ovens, but home cooks can also use a regular oven or a clay oven if they can get access to one. The baking process takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the temperature of the oven and the thickness of the dough. Once the bread is done, it is usually served hot and topped with a generous sprig of fresh parsley.

Turkish pide is an ideal dish to serve at family gatherings and events. The bread can be served with dips such as hummus or baba ghanoush, but it can also be served with meats such as kebabs, shawarma and grilled chicken. Many Turkish households also serve Turkish tea or coffee with the dish.

In Turkey, the dish is particularly popular during the month of Ramadan, which is the month when Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. They often break their fast in the evenings with Turkish Pide.

In conclusion, if you love bread, you cannot go wrong with Turkish Pide. It is tasty, filling and serves as an accompaniment to other delicious foods. With a bit of effort, some basic tools and ingredients, one can make this amazing bread at home. It’s a great way to introduce yourself or your loved ones to the Turkish culture through food.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 500 g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp instant yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup warm water

For the topping:

  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • A handful of black olives, pitted

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually pour olive oil over the dry ingredients while stirring. Add warm water, stir until a dough has formed.

  2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in the bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for an hour until it has doubled in size.

  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

  4. Divide the dough into 2 or 3 pieces, depending on the size of your pide. Sprinkle a little flour onto a baking sheet and roll out each piece of dough into a long, oval shape.

  5. Spread tomato sauce on top, leaving about 1 inch around the edges. Scatter bell peppers, onions, feta cheese, and olives over the top.

  6. Fold the edges of the pide slightly inward to make a boat shape. Brush the edges of the pide with olive oil.

  7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Serve hot with a light salad or yogurt sauce on the side. Enjoy your homemade Turkish pide!