Turkish Bread

Here’s a simple and traditional recipe for Turkish bread (also known as “Pide”):

Ingredients

• For the dough:
  • 500 grams all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (7 grams) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 300 milliliters warm water
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
• For the topping:
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
   • Make a well in the center and add the warm water and olive oil.
   • Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more water.
2. First rise:
   • 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 doubled in size.
3. Shape the bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
   • Punch down the dough to release the air, then transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
   • Divide the dough into two equal pieces and shape each piece into a round or oval loaf.
   • Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Prepare the topping:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, yogurt, and olive oil.
   • Brush the mixture over the tops of the loaves.
   • Sprinkle with sesame seeds or nigella seeds, if desired.
5. Second rise:
   • Let the loaves rest for about 15 minutes while the oven heats up.
6. Bake:
   • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool:
   • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Turkish bread!