This Cheesy Potato Pide is a perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a Turkish-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, cheese, and spiced potatoes in a beautifully golden crust. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, this pide will surely satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 2 pide (serving 4-6 people)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1-1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 125 ml (½ cup) warm water
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
- Salt, pepper, garlic, and chili to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Topping:
- 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Prepare the Dough:
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic powder.
Form the Dough:
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough starts to form.
Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
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Boil and Mash the Potatoes: While the dough is rising, boil the potatoes until tender. Once done, mash them until smooth.
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Season the Potatoes:
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic, and chili to taste.
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to add creaminess and flavor to the filling.
3. Assemble the Pide:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Divide and Roll the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each piece of dough into an oval shape on a floured surface.
Add the Filling:
- Spread the potato mixture evenly in the center of each oval dough, leaving a border around the edges.
Shape the Pide:
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a boat shape. Pinch the ends of the dough to seal them.
Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the potato filling for a cheesy, golden finish.
4. Bake the Pide:
- Place the prepared pide on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, comforting flavors of this delicious pide!
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve the pide with a light salad to balance the richness of the filling.
- With Yogurt: Pair it with a refreshing side of strained yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy contrast.
- As a Snack: Enjoy it as a warm snack with tea or coffee for a cozy, satisfying treat.
- With Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of tomato or lentil soup for a complete, hearty meal.
Cooking Tips
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s manageable, but make sure the dough remains soft and slightly tacky for the best texture.
- Resting the Dough: Allow the dough enough time to rise, which will help create a soft, airy crust.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is perfect for melting, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, feta, or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the potato filling.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme can be added as a garnish for a fragrant, herby touch.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, potatoes contribute to a healthy heart and digestive system.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Garlic: Known for its ability to boost the immune system, garlic also helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, olive oil supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
Storage
- Leftovers: Store any leftover pide in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness.
- Freezing: The assembled, unbaked pide can be frozen. Place it on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Layers: The dough is flaky, buttery, and light, perfectly complementing the creamy, cheesy potato filling.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple yet delivers a rich, comforting meal with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables, meats, or different cheeses to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
- Hearty and Satisfying: It’s the perfect dish for anyone who loves a satisfying, cheesy meal that’s both flavorful and filling.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter and more earthy flavor to the filling, creating a unique twist on this recipe.
2. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
3. Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead of homemade dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry for a quicker version. Just ensure the pastry is well-chilled before assembling.
4. How can I make the pide vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the filling for extra flavor.
5. How do I prevent the pide from becoming soggy?
Make sure to layer the filling evenly, and avoid overloading the dough. If necessary, bake on a preheated baking sheet to help crisp the bottom.
This Cheesy Potato Pide is a flavorful, cheesy delight that everyone will love. It’s perfect for any occasion, and with its customizable filling options, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!