Here’s a simple recipe for traditional Turkish bread (Ekmek) — soft on the inside with a crisp crust. 🍞
🍞 Turkish Bread Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 2 medium loaves)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional: sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping
Instructions
1️⃣ Activate Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2️⃣ Make Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms.
3️⃣ Knead
- Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4️⃣ First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth.
- Let rise 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5️⃣ Shape Loaves
- Punch down dough, divide into 2 portions.
- Shape into oval or round loaves.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optional: brush with water or egg wash, sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds.
6️⃣ Second Rise
- Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes.
7️⃣ Bake
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
8️⃣ Cool
- Let bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips
- For a crispier crust, place a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven while baking.
- Serve with butter, olive oil, or dips like hummus.
- Turkish bread pairs perfectly with soups, stews, and breakfast spreads.
If you want, I can also give a quick 1-hour Turkish flatbread version that’s softer and easier to make at home.
Do you want me to share that version?
