Turkish Bread (Pide Ekmeği)

Description: Turkish bread, also known as pide ekmeği, is a traditional and deliciously soft bread, often found in Turkish cuisine. It’s slightly chewy with a golden, slightly crisp crust and an airy, tender interior. This versatile bread is perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or used to make sandwiches. Its simple ingredients and rustic flavor make it a staple in Turkish households.

Origin: Turkish bread, particularly pide ekmeği, has roots in Turkey and the broader region of the Middle East. It is a staple in Turkish cuisine, enjoyed for centuries alongside meals or as an accompaniment to dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, or Turkish yogurt.

Ingredients (for 1 loaf):

2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
¾ cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
1 tablespoon milk (optional, for soft texture)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
1 teaspoon nigella seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast is frothy and bubbly.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil (and milk, if using). Stir to combine, and then knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out into a round or oval shape (about 1 inch thick).
Second rise: Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, brush the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds for a crunchy topping.
Bake the bread: Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. For an extra crispy crust, you can place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite dips, stews, or as an accompaniment to any Turkish meal.

Tips for Success:

Flour: You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture might be slightly denser.
Texture: For a softer bread, add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
Crust: To achieve a crispier crust, bake the bread on a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet.

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