How to Make Turkish Pide for a Delightful Dinner

Turkish pide, often referred to as "Turkish pizza," is a delicious and versatile dish that can be the star of your dinner table. Its thin, boat-shaped crust is topped with various ingredients that create a perfect blend of flavors. This article will guide you through the process of making authentic Turkish pide, ensuring you enjoy a delightful dinner with your family and friends.

Ingredients for Turkish Pide

To make a flavorful Turkish pide, you will need the following ingredients:

  • For the dough:
    • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup warm water
    • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the filling:
    • 1 cup ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
    • 1 small tomato, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Chopped parsley for garnish

Making the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

4. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until translucent.

2. Add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon, stirring until browned.

3. Incorporate the bell pepper, tomato, and tomato paste. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assembling the Pide

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into smaller portions (4-6 pieces depending on size preference).

3. Roll out each piece on a floured surface into an oval shape, about ¼ inch thick.

4. Spoon the filling onto the center of each oval, leaving space around the edges for the crust.

5. Fold the edges over the filling, pinching them to create a boat shape.

6. Transfer the assembled pides to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Baking the Pide

1. Bake the pides in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

2. Optional: Brush the crust lightly with melted butter before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

1. Remove the pides from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving.

2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

3. For an authentic experience, offer a selection of pickled vegetables alongside your Turkish pide.

Conclusion

Making Turkish pide at home is a delightful culinary adventure that brings a taste of Turkey to your kitchen. With its flavorful filling and crispy crust, it’s sure to be a hit for dinner. Enjoy this easy-to-follow recipe and share the joy of Turkish cuisine with your loved ones!