Description
This Fluffy Turkish Bread recipe produces a soft, light, and perfectly airy flatbread that’s perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside soups, or enjoying with any Mediterranean meal. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll make a bakery-style bread at home that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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2 teaspoons active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
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3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
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1 teaspoon yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
For the Topping (Optional):
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
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1 teaspoon nigella seeds (optional)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This step ensures the yeast is active. -
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and yogurt (if using). Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a touch more water. -
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and soft. Add flour as needed to prevent sticking. You should be able to stretch the dough without it tearing. -
First Rise:
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. -
Shape the Bread:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions (for larger flatbreads) or 4 portions (for smaller flatbreads). Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten each ball into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick. -
Second Rise:
Place the flattened discs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. -
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven. Brush the top of each flattened dough with olive oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or nigella seeds if desired. -
Bake the Bread:
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and puffed up. The bread should be soft and slightly crispy on the outside. You can also place the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end to get a more golden top, if you like. -
Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with olive oil for dipping, or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean dishes like hummus, stews, or grilled meats.
Notes
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Yogurt Option: Adding yogurt to the dough helps keep the bread extra soft, but it’s optional. You can omit it if you prefer.
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Variation: For a more traditional Turkish flavor, try brushing the dough with a little garlic-infused olive oil before baking.
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Storage: The bread is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
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Freezing: You can freeze the baked bread for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake it from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Turkish
