Fatayer and Pide are traditional savory pastries popular in Middle Eastern and Turkish cuisines. These delicious hand-shaped “pizzas” are known for their soft, doughy crust and flavorful fillings. Fatayer often features spinach, meat, or cheese, while Pide is typically topped with minced meat, vegetables, and sometimes eggs. This recipe combines the best of both worlds for a versatile, customizable dish that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients (Makes 6-8 Pide)
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (450 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For Meat Filling (Optional):
- 300 g (10.5 oz) ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella or feta cheese
- ½ cup (60 g) crumbled white cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For Spinach Filling:
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional):
- 1 egg (for traditional Pide)
- Sesame seeds or nigella seeds for garnish
Directions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Fillings:
For Meat Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add ground meat, tomato, and spices. Cook until meat is fully browned and liquid has evaporated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
For Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella, white cheese, and parsley. Set aside.
For Spinach Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onions until translucent. Add spinach, cooking just until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Shape and Fill:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 6–8 equal portions. Roll each into an oval or round shape about ¼ inch thick.
- Place the filling of your choice in the center, leaving a border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the dough inward slightly, pinching the ends to create a boat-like shape (Pide) or triangular shape (Fatayer).
4. Bake:
- Brush the edges of the dough with egg wash for a golden finish.
- For traditional Pide, crack an egg on top of the meat filling before baking.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the filling is cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of yogurt or salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
- Enjoy alongside a bowl of lentil soup for a complete meal.
- Top with chili flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Serve with pickled vegetables for a tangy accompaniment.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispy edges, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the Fatayer or Pide on it.
- Experiment with fillings such as mushrooms, roasted peppers, or olives.
- Knead the dough well to achieve a soft, elastic texture.
- Allow the dough to rest properly for easier shaping.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Meat filling provides protein and essential nutrients.
- Cheese filling offers calcium and protein for bone health.
- The homemade dough ensures minimal additives compared to store-bought alternatives.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Option: Use cheese or spinach filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free flour for the dough.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Meat Filling)
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Store leftover Fatayer or Pide in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes.
- Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of crisp crust and flavorful fillings.
- Versatile recipe that suits meat lovers, vegetarians, and cheese enthusiasts alike.
- Simple and fun to prepare, ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
- Authentic flavors that transport you to the Middle East and Turkey.
Conclusion
Fatayer and Pide are timeless classics that bring the best of Middle Eastern and Turkish flavors to your kitchen. Whether you prefer the hearty meat filling, creamy cheese, or nutritious spinach, these pastries are sure to please everyone. With a soft, homemade dough and customizable fillings, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover. Prepare it once, and it will become a staple in your recipe collection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, pre-made pizza or bread dough works well for a quicker version. - Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use spinach or vegetable fillings and a plant-based dough recipe. - What other fillings can I use?
Try mushrooms, roasted eggplant, or potatoes for variety. - Can I freeze Fatayer or Pide?
Yes, freeze before baking or after fully cooked and cooled. Reheat in the oven. - Do I need to pre-cook the spinach?
Pre-cooking spinach prevents excess moisture in the filling. - Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. - How can I make the dough fluffier?
Ensure the yeast is fresh and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. - What’s the best way to shape Fatayer or Pide?
Use a rolling pin and shape into rounds (Fatayer) or ovals (Pide). Pinch the edges firmly. - Can I add cheese to the meat filling?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or feta complements the meat filling beautifully. - Is this dish traditionally served with sauce?
No, but it pairs wonderfully with yogurt-based dips or tahini sauce.