Cheese Pide (Turkish Cheese Flatbread)

Cheese Pide is a Turkish-style flatbread with a crispy crust and a rich, cheesy filling. It features a golden-brown dough stuffed with mozzarella and white salted cheese, creating a deliciously gooey texture. Brushed with melted butter, this savory delight is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. Serve it warm and enjoy the authentic taste of Turkey at home!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Resting Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Servings: 12 pieces

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1½ cups (350 ml) warm water
  • 1 teaspoon dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 4½ cups (550 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons (40 ml) vegetable oil

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups (300 g) grated mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cups (450 g) white salted cheese (feta or similar)
  • 2 eggs

To Spread:

  • Melted butter, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare Yeast Dough:

  • In a bowl, mix warm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes until bubbly.
  • In another bowl, sift flour and mix with salt.
  • Add the yeast mixture to the flour and stir with a spatula.
  • Gradually add vegetable oil and knead with your hands until smooth.
  • Cover with cling film and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling:

  • Grate mozzarella cheese and white salted cheese.
  • Mix both cheeses with eggs in a bowl until well combined.

3. Divide and Shape the Dough:

  • Lightly knead the risen dough and place it on a floured surface.
  • Divide into two equal parts, then cut each part into 6 pieces (12 total).
  • Shape each piece into a ball and cover with a towel. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  • Roll out each dough ball into an oval shape.

4. Fill and Shape Pide:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto the rolled-out dough.
  • Fold and press the edges to create the classic boat shape.
  • Repeat for all dough pieces.

5. Bake Pide:

  • Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
  • Place the pide on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Serve:

  • Brush hot pide with melted butter for extra flavor.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of olives, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes.
  • Pair with a refreshing yogurt sauce or tzatziki.
  • Enjoy with a cup of Turkish tea for an authentic experience.

Cooking Tips

  • Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
  • Brush the edges with egg wash before baking for a more golden crust.
  • Add toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or spicy peppers for variety.
  • Use a pizza stone for an extra crispy base.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Good source of protein from eggs and cheese.
  • Rich in calcium, supporting bone health.
  • Contains healthy fats from cheese and olive oil.
  • Provides essential vitamins from dairy and eggs.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-friendly (if using vegetarian cheese).
  • Contains gluten – use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Not suitable for dairy-free diets due to cheese and butter.

Nutritional Facts (Per Piece)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calcium: 180mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked pide in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or in a pan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and homemade – better than takeout!
  • Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside.
  • Customizable – add your favorite fillings.
  • Perfect for any meal – breakfast, lunch, or snack!

Conclusion
Cheese Pide is a traditional Turkish comfort food that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The fluffy dough, gooey cheese, and crispy crust make every bite a delight. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save some for later, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try this Turkish flatbread today and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use different cheeses?
    Yes! Feta, cheddar, or gouda work well.
  2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before using.
  3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes, but the texture will be denser. Use a mix of white and whole wheat flour for balance.
  4. How do I keep pide soft?
    Brush with melted butter after baking to keep it soft and flavorful.
  5. Can I freeze unbaked pide?
    Yes! Shape them, freeze them on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. Bake directly from frozen.
  6. What is the best way to reheat pide?
    Use an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.
  7. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes! You can add ground beef, lamb, or pepperoni for extra protein.
  8. How do I make a crispy bottom?
    Bake on a preheated pizza stone or a lightly greased baking sheet.
  9. Can I make mini pides?
    Yes! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions for bite-sized versions.
  10. Is this similar to a calzone?
    Not exactly—calzones are fully enclosed, while pide has an open top, making it crispier.