Turkish Ground Meat Pide Recipe: A Delicious Turkish Flatbread
Turkish Ground Meat Pide, also known as “Kiymali Pide,” is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines soft, boat-shaped dough with a rich, seasoned ground meat filling. Often referred to as Turkish pizza, Pide is a popular choice in Turkish cuisine, with its crispy crust and savory toppings making it an irresistible meal. This easy-to-make recipe will guide you through the steps of creating authentic Turkish Pide at home, bringing the tastes of Turkey to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Turkish Ground Meat Pide
For the dough:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 1 packet of instant yeast (7g)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 250ml warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the filling:
- 300g ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions for Turkish Ground Meat Pide
- Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until the mixture forms a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour until it doubles in size. - Prepare the Meat Filling
While the dough is rising, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef or lamb to the pan and cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces. Stir in the green bell pepper, diced tomato, and tomato paste. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. - Shape the Pide
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick, on a floured surface. The oval dough should resemble the shape of a boat with slightly thicker edges. - Fill the Pide
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Spoon the ground meat mixture onto the center of each dough oval, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough inward slightly, pinching the ends to form a boat shape. This will keep the filling contained while baking. - Bake the Pide
Transfer the filled Pide to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. The edges should be firm to the touch, and the filling should be bubbling and cooked through. - Serve and Enjoy
Once the Pide is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into slices and serve warm. Turkish Pide pairs perfectly with a side of fresh salad or a dollop of plain yogurt for a traditional touch.
Tips for Perfect Pide
- Dough Consistency: For the softest, fluffiest crust, ensure the dough is well-kneaded and allowed enough time to rise properly.
- Filling Variations: While ground meat is a classic filling, you can experiment with other toppings like spinach and feta, mushrooms, or cheese for a vegetarian version.
- Cooking Method: If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, use it for an extra crispy crust. The high, even heat will replicate the traditional Turkish oven used for Pide.
What Makes Meat Pide Special?
The combination of perfectly seasoned ground meat and soft, golden dough makes Turkish Ground Meat Pide a standout dish. It’s both hearty and versatile, with its crisp exterior and flavorful filling making it a popular choice for casual meals, picnics, or even parties. The filling of ground beef or lamb, mixed with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices, brings out a rich and aromatic profile that makes each bite memorable.
Conclusion
This Turkish Ground Meat Pide recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Turkish cuisine. With its savory filling, crispy edges, and soft, flavorful dough, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a perfect representation of Turkish culinary tradition, offering a satisfying meal for any occasion.
