Turkish Cheese Pide

Turkish cheese pide is a delicious, boat-shaped flatbread filled with a rich, melty cheese blend and fresh herbs. This traditional Turkish dish has a crispy, golden crust and a soft, cheesy center, making it a perfect comfort food. Often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, this pide is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Turkish flavors – Experience the rich and comforting taste of traditional pide.
• Cheesy and crispy – A perfect combination of gooey cheese and a crisp, golden crust.
• Versatile and customizable – Can be adapted with different fillings, such as meats or vegetables.
• Easy to make at home – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for all skill levels.
• Great for sharing – Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or main course for gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour
• salt
• sugar
• yeast
• warm water
• olive oil
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• feta cheese, crumbled
• egg yolk (for brushing)
• fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape.
6. In a bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta.
7. Fill the center of each oval with the cheese mixture, leaving about an inch of dough around the edges.
8. Fold the edges inward, pinching the ends to create a boat shape.
9. Brush the edges with egg yolk for a golden finish.
10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 pieces

Variations

• Spinach and Cheese Pide – Add sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture for a flavorful twist.
• Meat Pide – Include seasoned ground beef or lamb for a heartier version.
• Egg-Topped Pide – Crack an egg in the center of the pide before baking for a traditional Turkish touch.
• Spicy Pide – Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers for extra heat.
• Garlic Butter Pide – Brush the crust with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze baked pide for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and reheat in the oven.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or in a skillet over low heat.

FAQs

What is Turkish pide?

Pide is a traditional Turkish flatbread, often shaped like a boat and filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. Mixing whole wheat with all-purpose flour helps maintain softness.

What other cheeses can I use?

Try halloumi, kashar, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for different flavors.

Do I need a pizza stone to bake pide?

No, a regular baking sheet works well. However, a pizza stone can enhance the crispiness.

How do I prevent the dough from being too dry?

Make sure to knead the dough properly and let it rise in a warm, humid environment.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

How do I get a crispy crust?

Brushing the edges with egg yolk and baking at a high temperature ensures a crispy, golden crust.

Is pide the same as pizza?

While similar, pide has a distinct boat shape and is typically lighter and crispier than traditional pizza.

Can I cook pide in a pan instead of baking?

Yes, you can cook it in a covered skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp.

What can I serve with cheese pide?

It pairs well with a fresh salad, yogurt dip, or a glass of Turkish tea.

Conclusion

Turkish cheese pide is a delightful and simple dish that brings authentic Middle Eastern flavors to your home. With its crispy crust and melty cheese filling, it’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a creative variation, this easy-to-make pide will quickly become a favorite!