Turkish Cheese Bread with Sesame Seeds

Kaşarlı Poğaça is a beloved Turkish pastry known for its soft, fluffy texture and savory cheese filling. Often enjoyed during breakfast or as a snack, these sesame-coated buns are a staple in Turkish households and bakeries. The combination of a tender dough and melted cheese makes them irresistible to cheese lovers and bread enthusiasts alike.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 1 hour (including dough fermentation)

• Baking: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons sugar (60 g)

• 1 pack of yeast (11 g)

• 2 glasses of warm water (400 ml)

• Half a tea glass of oil or olive oil (55 g)

• 2 eggs

• 7 cups of all-purpose flour (755 g)

• 2 teaspoons of salt (14 g)

• 1.5 teaspoons of softened butter (40 g)

• Grated cheddar cheese (for filling)

• Sesame seeds (for coating)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, yeast, and warm water. Stir until the yeast dissolves.

   • Add the oil and eggs to the mixture. Mix well.

   • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing continuously until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.

   • Incorporate the softened butter into the dough, kneading until fully absorbed.

   • Cover the dough and let it ferment in a warm environment for 40 minutes.

2. Shape the Poğaça

   • Divide the fermented dough into 20 equal pieces.

   • Flatten each piece and place a spoonful of grated cheddar cheese in the center.

   • Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges to form a bun.

   • Roll each bun in sesame seeds to coat the surface.

3. Bake

   • Place the prepared buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).

   • Bake the buns for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 25 g

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 8 g

• Fiber: 1 g

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Poğaça has its roots in Turkish cuisine and is a common pastry found in bakeries and homes across Turkey. The term “poğaça” is derived from the Latin word “panis focacius,” meaning bread baked on the hearth. Over time, it has evolved into various forms, with cheese-filled versions like Kaşarlı Poğaça gaining immense popularity due to their delightful taste and satisfying texture.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of soft bread and melted cheddar cheese creates a comforting and savory taste.

• Versatility: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for home bakers.

• Customizable: Can be filled with various cheeses or other fillings like olives or herbs.

Health Benefits

While Kaşarlı Poğaça is an indulgent treat, it offers some nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Cheddar cheese provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

• Calcium: Cheese is rich in calcium, important for bone health.

• Energy: Carbohydrates from the flour offer a quick energy source.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Serve warm with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.

• Snack: Pair with a light salad or yogurt for a balanced snack.

• Party Appetizer: Mini versions can be served as appetizers at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overproofing: Allowing the dough to ferment too long can result in a sour taste.

• Underbaking: Ensure the buns are baked until golden brown to avoid a doughy texture.

• Overfilling: Too much cheese can cause the buns to burst open during baking.

Pairing Recommendations

• Beverages: Turkish tea, ayran (a yogurt-based drink), or fresh orange juice.

• Sides: Olives, sliced tomatoes, or cucumber salad.

Cooking Tips

• Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour as needed.

• Cheese Selection: Use a good melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for best results.

• Sesame Seeds: Toasting sesame seeds before coating can enhance their flavor.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Simit: Turkish sesame bagels, a popular street food.

• Pide: Boat-shaped Turkish flatbread often filled with cheese or meat.

• Börek: Layered pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

Variations to Try

• Herb-Infused: Add chopped parsley or dill to the dough for added flavor.

• Spicy: Incorporate chili flakes or spicy cheese for a kick.

• Sweet Version: Fill with sweetened cream cheese and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking.

Ingredient Spotlight: Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds not only add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to Kaşarlı Poğaça but also offer nutritional benefits. They are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals like calcium and magnesium. In Turkish cuisine, sesame seeds are commonly used in various baked goods, adding both taste and visual appeal.

Conclusion

Kaşarlı Poğaça is a delightful Turkish pastry that combines the comfort of soft bread with the savory goodness of melted cheese. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste make it a favorite among many. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

   • Yes, mozzarella, feta, or a mix of cheeses can be used based on preference.

2. Can I freeze Kaşarlı Poğaça?

   • Absolutely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

3. How can I make the dough rise faster?

   • Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. Using slightly warmer water (not hot) can also speed up the fermentation process.

4. Can I make mini versions for appetizers?

   • Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly.

5. Is it necessary to use sesame seeds?

   • While traditional, sesame seeds can be omitted or replaced with poppy seeds or nigella seeds.

6. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

   • Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

7. What can I serve with Kaşarlı Poğaça?

   • They pair well with tea, coffee, yogurt drinks, or fresh salads.

8. How do I store leftovers?

   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

9. Can I add herbs to the dough?

   • Yes, adding herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme can enhance the flavor.

10. Is it possible to make a sweet version?

    • Certainly. Fill with sweetened cream cheese or fruit preserves and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking.

Enjoy baking and savoring this classic Turkish delight!