Homemade Turkish Pide Bread

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 egg yolk, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon nigella seeds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
   • 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 it has doubled in size.
2. Shape the Pide:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, then divide it into two equal pieces.
   • On a floured surface, roll each piece of dough into an oval shape about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Transfer the dough ovals to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg yolk with the milk.
   • Brush the egg wash over the surface of the dough ovals.
4. Add the Seeds:
   • Sprinkle the sesame seeds and nigella seeds evenly over the dough.
   • Using your fingertips, create dimples all over the surface of the dough.
5. Bake the Bread:
   • Bake the pide in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

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• Serve the Turkish pide warm with a side of hummus, tzatziki, or your favorite dips.
• This bread is also excellent as a base for sandwiches or simply enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil.