Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and activated yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, tomatoes, parsley, garlic, tomato paste, red pepper paste (if using), paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until evenly combined. Let the mixture marinate while the dough rises.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake Lahmacun
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
- Divide and Roll Dough: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin oval or round shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Spread Topping: Place each rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet or directly onto a preheated pizza stone. Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Bake: Bake each lahmacun in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the meat topping is cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh lettuce, parsley, mint, thinly sliced red onion, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of sumac.
Tips for Serving
- Enjoy Fresh: Lahmacun is best enjoyed fresh and hot out of the oven.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other fresh vegetables or herbs according to your preference.
- Eat Folded: Traditionally, lahmacun is folded and eaten like a wrap or topped with salad and rolled.
Enjoy Your Homemade Lahmacun!
Lahmacun is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a crispy base, making it a favorite street food across Turkey and beyond. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Turkish pizza with family and friends!