Savory Turkish Cheese Pide

Indulge in the taste of Turkey with this authentic recipe for Peynirli Pide, a savory flatbread filled with a delectable cheese mixture. It’s perfect for any time of the day, from a hearty snack to a satisfying meal.

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons dry yeast (one standard packet)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Approximately 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (Type 405)
• 1 egg white (reserve the yolk for brushing)

For the Cheese Filling:

• Feta cheese or Lor (Turkish cheese)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Red bell pepper, finely diced

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water and milk. Stir in the yeast and sugar, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the yogurt, oil, salt, and egg white to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to adjust the flour amount slightly.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 45 minutes.
5. Prepare the cheese filling by crumbling the Feta or Lor cheese and mixing it with chopped parsley and diced red bell pepper.
6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls the size of a mandarin. Cover and let them rest for an additional 20 minutes.
7. Flatten the dough balls, creating a hollow in the center for the filling. Optionally, score the edges with a knife.
8. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center of each dough piece.
9. Let the filled dough rest for another 20 minutes.
10. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
11. Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg yolk.
12. Bake the pide for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
13. Remove from the oven and brush the sides with a bit of butter. Cover and let the pide rest for 5 minutes.

Serve your homemade Peynirli Pide warm, straight from the oven, and enjoy a taste of Turkey right at your table. Enjoy this delightful treat with friends and family! 👩🏻‍🍳🧀🥖