How to Make Traditional Turkish Chicken Pide
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors and rich culinary traditions, and one dish that stands out is the traditional Chicken Pide. This delicious flatbread, often referred to as the "Turkish pizza," is packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. In this article, we will explore how to make traditional Turkish Chicken Pide at home, guiding you through each step of the process.
Ingredients for Chicken Pide
To get started on your Chicken Pide, gather the following ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (7 grams) instant yeast
- 250 ml warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- For the filling:
- 300 grams chicken breast, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
1. While the dough is rising, prepare the chicken filling. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in a bit of olive oil until softened.
2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
3. Stir in the green and red bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove from heat and let the filling cool as you preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
Assemble the Pide
1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 2-4 equal pieces, depending on your desired size.
2. Roll each piece into an oval shape on a floured surface, about 1 cm thick.
3. Create an edge by folding the sides of the dough over slightly, pinching to ensure it holds its shape.
4. Spoon the chicken filling into the center of each pide, spreading it evenly.
Baking the Pide
1. Place the prepared pides on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
3. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Pide hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It pairs wonderfully with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this traditional Turkish delicacy, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling—adding ingredients like cheese or spices can create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Now that you know how to make traditional Turkish Chicken Pide, gather your ingredients and start creating this delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends!