Turkish bread, known for its soft, fluffy interior and golden, crispy crust, is a staple in Turkish cuisine. Whether enjoyed with dips, used as a base for sandwiches, or simply served alongside a meal, this bread is incredibly versatile and satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields the most delicious results, perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of Turkey into their kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Turkish Bread:
- 1 small spoonful of sugar
- 400 ml warm water (2 cups)
- 10 g dry yeast
- 4 cups flour (800 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 20 ml cold water
- 50 ml boiled water
- 1 egg yolk
- Additional flour for kneading the dough
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the small spoonful of sugar in 400 ml of warm water. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough: Add the flour and salt to the bowl with the activated yeast. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until the ingredients begin to come together into a sticky dough.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Begin kneading the dough by hand, adding small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Drape the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it sit in a warm spot for around 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Form each portion into either a round or oval loaf, according to your choice. Arrange the loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaves with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with 20 ml of cold water and 50 ml of boiled water. Stir until well combined. This mixture will give the bread a beautiful golden color and shiny crust.
- Bake the Bread: Before baking, gently brush the egg yolk mixture over the tops of the loaves. Optionally, you can sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds on top for added flavor and texture. Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite spreads, dips, or meals.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious Turkish bread recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With its soft, airy texture and perfectly crisp crust, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re making sandwiches, dipping it in olive oil, or enjoying it plain, this bread is sure to impress with its authentic flavor and simple preparation. Enjoy the taste of homemade Turkish bread, fresh from your oven!