Turkish Bread Recipe

Directions

Making the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until a rough dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

First Rise:

1. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping the Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
3. Second Rise: Place the shaped loaves on the prepared baking sheet. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Baking the Bread:

1. Prepare for Baking: Just before baking, gently score the tops of the loaves with a sharp knife. If desired, brush the tops with water and sprinkle with sesame seeds, nigella seeds, or poppy seeds.
2. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Serving:

1. Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the bread and serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with olive oil, hummus, or as part of a meal.

Tips and Shortcuts

• Use Bread Flour: For an even chewier texture, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Add Flavor: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for added flavor.
• Bread Machine Option: If you have a bread machine, you can follow the machine’s instructions for making the dough, then shape and bake as directed above.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Turkish Bread: Add dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Stuffed Turkish Bread: Fill the dough with feta cheese, spinach, or olives before shaping for a delicious surprise.
• Spicy Variation: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Turkish bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven when ready to eat.