- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If the mixture does not foam, the yeast may be expired or the water too hot/cold.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 2 equal portions.
- On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a flat oval or rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. You can also shape the dough into a round or oval, depending on your preference.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare for Baking:
- Brush the tops of the dough with beaten egg for a glossy finish. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- If you like a crispier crust, you can bake for an additional 5 minutes, but be careful not to over-bake.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of za’atar or dried herbs on top of the dough before baking.
- For softer bread: Brush the hot bread with a little melted butter right after baking.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a warm oven to bring back its freshness.
Variations:
- Turkish Pide with Toppings: Before baking, you can top the dough with ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese for a more elaborate version.
- Spiced Turkish Bread: Incorporate spices like cumin or paprika into the dough for added flavor.
How do you like your Turkish bread? Let me know if you have any specific preferences or if there’s anything else you’d like to try!