Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but keep it soft.
- First rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the bread:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions if you want smaller loaves or leave it whole for a larger one.
- Shape the dough into a round or oval shape, about 1 inch thick. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second rise:
- Cover the shaped dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Prepare the egg wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and yogurt. Brush the top of the dough with this mixture.
- Create the signature pattern:
- Gently press your fingers into the dough to create a crisscross or diamond pattern on the surface.
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake the bread for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool and serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Serving suggestions:
- Turkish bread (Pide) is delicious served warm with dips like hummus or baba ganoush, or as a side for kebabs and grilled meats.
Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and wonderful taste of this traditional Turkish Bread (Pide)!