Turkish Bread Recipe

Introduction

Turkish bread, known locally as Bazlama, is a soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy flatbread that’s a staple in Turkish households. It’s often enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the pan, served with butter, cheese, or honey. Simple yet satisfying, it pairs beautifully with any meal — from hearty stews to light breakfasts.

This traditional bread is loved for its comforting texture and delicate flavor. Unlike oven-baked loaves, Bazlama is cooked on a skillet or griddle, making it easy to prepare even without a traditional oven. Its golden-brown spots and pillowy softness are a true testament to Turkish culinary heritage.

Whether you’re new to bread-making or a seasoned baker, Turkish bread is a must-try recipe. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you taste it fresh off the pan, you’ll understand why it’s a Turkish classic!

⏱ Cooking Time & Serving

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 1 hour

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

• Servings: Makes 6 medium-sized breads

🥣 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 How to Make Turkish Bread (Bazlama)

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yogurt, olive oil, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Let It Rise:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Bread:
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a round disc (about ½ inch thick).

6. Cook the Bread:
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each disc for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden spots appear and the bread puffs up.

7. Brush with Olive Oil:
   Once cooked, brush each bread lightly with olive oil or butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

📝 Notes

• Make sure your water is warm, not hot — this helps the yeast activate without killing it.

• You can substitute yogurt with milk for a softer texture.

• For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds on top before cooking.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat on a skillet before serving.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Turkish bread?
A: Yes! Once cooled, wrap each bread in cling film and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or toaster before serving.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but texture may vary slightly.

Q: What can I serve with Turkish bread?
A: It’s perfect with dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or simply with butter and honey. It also pairs beautifully with soups and kebabs.

🍽 Nutrition Information

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

⚠️ Disclaimer

Enjoy Turkish bread in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have gluten, yeast, or dairy allergies, consider suitable substitutes or consult a healthcare professional before consumption.