With the delicious smell and flavour of authentic Turkish flatbread, also known as “Bazlama,” you can get the best out of Turkish Cuisine. This delicious piece of art, another reason to visit your grandmas in their homes, has a smooth texture and a light smokiness, making it a delicious sidekick to many different meals or an excellent snack on its own. In this article, we’ll dig deep to discover the wonders of Turkish flatbread, learning about the recipe, going over the essential ingredients, and, of course, sharing Mama Fatma‘s delicious and easy Turkish flatbread recipe so you can experience Turkish flavours in your own home.
What is Turkish Flatbread (Bazlama)?
Turkish Flatbread, or Bazlama, is a traditional bread with a significant place in Turkish culinary heritage. This delightful bread is characterized by its round shape and unique preparation method, which involves baking it on a convex griddle known as a “sac.” The result is a soft and fluffy flatbread with a slightly charred surface that imparts a distinct smoky flavour. Bazlama is not only a beloved accompaniment to various Turkish dishes but is also cherished for its versatility and ability to pair effortlessly with both savory and sweet fillings.
Ingredients:
To embark on your journey to baking authentic Turkish Flatbread, gather these essential ingredients:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Additional flour for dusting
- You can also add cheese in or use while serving if you would like to eat Turkish flatbread with cheese
How to Make Turkish Flatbread?
Preparing the Dough:
Warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast should all be combined in a small bowl. Until it starts to foam, give the yeast about 5 to 10 minutes to bloom.
Salt and all-purpose flour should be combined in a large bowl for mixing. Once a rough dough starts to form, gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients while stirring.
The dough should be transferred to a floured surface and worked for 5-7 minutes to make it smooth and elastic.
Let it Rise:
The dough should be placed in a lightly oiled bowl, covered with a clean cloth, and allowed to rise for about one to two hours, or until it doubles in size, in a warm, draft-free area.
Shaping the Flatbread:
Create equal-sized balls of dough about the size of a golf ball. Each ball should be formed into a flat, round disc about 14 inches thick on a floured surface.
Cooking the Flatbread:
Over medium heat, preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or convex griddle. When the griddle is hot, put the flatbread that has been rolled out on it and cook it for two to three minutes on each side, or until it has a light golden brown color and char marks.
Enjoy the Flavors:
Remove the Turkish Flatbread from the griddle and repeat the process with the remaining dough balls. Serve the warm and delicious Bazlama as a delightful accompaniment to various Turkish dishes or with your favourite fillings.
How to Serve Turkish Flatbread?
Mama Fatma‘s Turkish Flatbread is incredibly versatile, offering numerous serving possibilities. It goes well with traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, grilled meats, and hearty stews because the flatbread can be used to scoop up the mouthwatering flavours. Additionally, you can stuff it with a variety of ingredients, such as roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or flavorful spreads like hummus and tahini, to make it into a delectable wrap or sandwich. Spread some honey or Nutella on the warm flatbread for a sweet treat, and then indulge in the delightful blending of tastes and textures.
How to Store Leftovers?
If, by any chance, you have leftovers of Mama Fatma‘s delightful Turkish Flatbread, store them properly to maintain their freshness. Assuring there is no extra air, put the cooled flatbreads in an airtight container or a plastic bag. For up to two days, keep the container in a cool, dry location. Wrapped in foil, reheat the flatbreads in a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until they are soft and pliable once more.
What to Eat with Turkish Flatbread?
The versatility of Turkish Flatbread allows it to pair beautifully with an array of dishes. For a savory delight, indulge in the Turkish tradition of “Bazlama with cheese,” where the soft flatbread is accompanied by a variety of local cheeses, olives, and fresh vegetables. You can also serve it with grilled meats, dips like baba ganoush or tzatziki, or alongside a traditional Turkish breakfast spread featuring eggs, tomatoes, and cucumbers. On the sweeter side, explore the joy of topping the flatbread with Nutella, honey, or fruit preserves for a delightful dessert-like experience.
FAQ: How is Bazlama Different from Other Flatbreads like Naan and Pita?
While Turkish Flatbread, or Bazlama, may share some similarities with other flatbreads like naan and pita, it possesses unique characteristics that set it apart. Bazlama is distinct for its use of a convex griddle during the cooking process, which creates the trademark smoky flavour and slightly charred surface. In contrast, naan is traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, while pita is baked in a conventional oven. Additionally, the dough of Bazlama typically includes olive oil, which contributes to its soft and pillowy texture, differentiating it from the chewy consistency of naan and the pocket-like structure of pita.
FAQ: Can I Freeze Bazlama?
Yes, you can freeze Mama Fatma‘s delicious Turkish Flatbread for later enjoyment. Before wrapping each flatbread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil individually, make sure they have completely cooled. You can freeze the wrapped flatbreads for up to two months in an airtight container or freezer bag. Simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours to thaw, or warm them briefly in a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven until they are soft and malleable once more.
Mama Fatma‘s Authentic Turkish Flatbread, or Bazlama, is a culinary gem that brings the essence of Turkey to your home. With its soft and fluffy texture, combined with a subtle smokiness, this delightful flatbread effortlessly complements a wide array of dishes or stands alone as a scrumptious treat. Embark on your culinary adventure with Mama Fatma‘s easy and delicious Turkish Flatbread recipe, and experience the taste of tradition and the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Embrace the versatility of Bazlama, savor its delightful flavors, and create cherished memories as you indulge in the timeless taste of Turkey, right from your own kitchen!