Turkish Bread (Pide Ekmek)
Soft, fluffy inside with a golden crust and beautiful sesame topping — perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or serving alongside soups and grilled meats.
🛒 Ingredients (Makes 2 loaves)
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1½ tsp salt
1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup warm milk
2 tbsp olive oil
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp yogurt (mixed with egg)
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp nigella seeds (optional, traditional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
Add flour, salt, and olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(Dough should be soft but not sticky — add a little flour if needed.)
3️⃣ First Rise
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled.
4️⃣ Shape the Bread
Divide dough into 2 equal pieces.
Shape each into a round or oval about ½ inch thick.
Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover loosely and let rest 20–30 minutes.
5️⃣ Create the Traditional Pattern
Mix egg + yogurt for egg wash.
Brush generously over dough.
Using fingertips, gently press lines to form a crisscross pattern (don’t cut — just press).
Sprinkle sesame and nigella seeds on top.
6️⃣ Bake
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
For extra softness, brush lightly with butter right after baking.
🍽️ Serve With
Hummus
Grilled meats
Soups
As sandwich bread
Turkish Bread
