How to Make Turkish Soup with Pide

Turkish cuisine is rich in flavors and traditions, and one of the most delightful ways to experience it is through a comforting bowl of Turkish soup paired with pide. This unique combination brings together the hearty, fragrant soup and the soft, doughy pide, creating a satisfying meal for any time of the day. Below, we will explore how to make a traditional Turkish soup and delicious pide.

Ingredients for Turkish Soup

To make a delicious Turkish soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup of lentils (red or green)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions for Turkish Soup

Follow these steps to prepare your Turkish soup:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in the chopped carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Add the paprika and cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.
  4. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat, add the lentils, and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
  6. Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a creamy texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
  7. Adjust seasoning if necessary and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Ingredients for Pide

Pide, often referred to as Turkish flatbread, is a perfect complement to your soup. Here’s what you need to make pide:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional toppings: cheese, ground meat, or vegetables

Instructions for Pide

Making pide is simple. Follow these instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
  2. Add warm water and olive oil, and knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  5. After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval shape, about ½ inch thick.
  6. If you like, add toppings such as cheese, ground meat, or vegetables before folding the edges of the dough to create a boat shape.
  7. Place the pide on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your hot Turkish soup in individual bowls alongside the freshly baked pide. This combination is not only delectable but also warms the soul. You can also provide extra olive oil and lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.

Conclusion

Making Turkish soup with pide is a wonderful way to explore the delicious flavors of Turkey. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, this meal is sure to satisfy your cravings. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the delightful culinary experience!