Bazlama is a traditional Turkish flatbread that’s soft, fluffy, and incredibly delicious. This bread is perfect for any meal, whether you’re using it as a side, a wrap, or even on its own with a bit of butter. It’s so easy to make that anyone can do it, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
RECIPE:
Ingredients:
- For the Bazlama:
- 500g bread flour or all-purpose flour (4 cups)
- 160ml warm milk (2/3 cup)
- 160ml warm water (2/3 cup)
- 10g instant dry yeast (1.5 tbsp)
- 10g sugar (1 tbsp)
- 8g salt (0.8 tbsp)
- 18g olive oil (3 tbsp)
- Optional Topping:
- 20g melted unsalted butter or olive oil
- Crushed red pepper
- Chopped parsley
Directions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, instant dry yeast, and sugar.
- Stir well to dissolve the yeast and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Combine and Knead:
- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and mix well until combined.
- Add the olive oil and continue to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes by hand.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Coat the dough with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the Dough:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal parts.
- Shape each part into a ball, then flatten each ball with a rolling pin to a diameter of 18cm (7 inches) and a thickness of 5mm (0.2 inches).
- Cook the Bazlama:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking oil.
- Place the flattened dough in the pan and cook until bubbles form on the surface.
- Flip the dough and cook until both sides are golden brown.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook until the bread starts to puff up.
- Keep Warm and Serve:
- Remove the cooked bazlama from the pan and cover with a cloth to keep warm.
- Optionally, brush with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with crushed red pepper and chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Bazlama can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm with a spread of butter, use it as a wrap for grilled meats or vegetables, or enjoy it with dips like hummus or tzatziki. It pairs wonderfully with soups and salads as well.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the milk and water are warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough well to achieve the right texture. It should be smooth and elastic.
- Cook the bazlama over medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Flour provides carbohydrates and protein, essential for energy and muscle repair.
- Olive oil is a healthy fat that contributes to heart health.
- Milk adds calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per piece
- Servings: 6 pieces
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Vegan: The recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based milk and omitting the optional butter topping.
Why This Recipe Works: This recipe works because it combines simple ingredients to create a bread that’s soft, flavorful, and versatile. The warm milk and water help activate the yeast, leading to a perfect rise. The olive oil adds moisture and richness, while the cooking method ensures a delightful texture with a golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Conclusion: Bazlama is an easy-to-make Turkish flatbread that brings a taste of tradition to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and delightful flavor, it’s a bread that everyone will love. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade bazlama, perfect for any meal or occasion.