Introduction
Pide, often referred to as "Turkish pizza," is a popular dish in Turkey known for its boat-shaped, thin crust and a wide range of toppings. Traditionally filled with minced meat, vegetables, and spices, Pide is baked in a stone oven to achieve a perfectly crispy crust. The dish can be customized with various ingredients, including cheese, egg, and herbs, making it a versatile meal suitable for any time of day. It is often enjoyed with a side of yogurt or fresh salad, providing a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or feta)
- Optional: Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
Instructions
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Make the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and green bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the diced tomato, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. If using cheese, mix it in at this stage.
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Shape the Pide:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Place a generous amount of filling along the center of each dough oval, leaving space around the edges. Fold the edges over to create a boat shape, pinching the ends to seal.
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Bake:
- Carefully transfer the shaped Pide onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly onto the preheated baking stone. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint before slicing and serving. Pide is often enjoyed with a side of yogurt or fresh salad.
Health Tips
- Pide can be made healthier by using whole wheat flour for the dough and adding more vegetables to the filling. Using lean ground meat can also reduce fat content.
Serving Suggestions
- Pide pairs well with a simple green salad, yogurt, or a tangy dipping sauce made from yogurt and cucumber (cacik).
Tips
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with different ingredients, such as spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses, to suit your taste preferences.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a touch of water.
- Make-Ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
