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Introduction:
Turkish bread, or Ekmek, is a staple in Turkish households, cherished for its crispy crust and soft, airy interior. This bread accompanies almost every meal, from hearty stews to meze platters, making it a versatile favorite. Known for its simple ingredients yet rich texture, Turkish bread is easy to make at home, and the aroma of freshly baked loaves will fill your kitchen with warmth and authenticity. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe will guide you in making a traditional loaf that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
500g (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour
10g (2 teaspoons) salt
10g (2 teaspoons) sugar
7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm water
30ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil
1 tablespoon yogurt (optional, for a softer texture)
Directions:
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to work.
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the olive oil, yogurt (if using), and the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
Bake the Bread: Once the dough has risen, make a few shallow slashes on the top with a sharp knife for decoration and to help the bread rise evenly in the oven. Place the dough in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Turkish bread pairs wonderfully with dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, or tzatziki, and it's perfect for sopping up sauces from stews and soups. You can also enjoy it with cheese and olives for a simple snack.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag. To revive frozen bread, simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
Variations:
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