Bagyrly Çörük
Bagyrly Çörük is a traditional dish from the rich and diverse culinary world of Turkmenistan. It is a type of stuffed bread that combines the fragrant aromas of spices and the heartiness of meat, making it a staple in Turkmen households. The dish is both filling and flavorful, reflecting the warm hospitality of the Turkmen people. Dating back centuries, Bagyrly Çörük has been a part of celebrations and family gatherings, symbolizing comfort and togetherness.
Ingredients
- Flour - 500g
- Water - 250ml
- Yeast - 10g
- Salt - 1 tsp
- Sugar - 1 tsp
- Vegetable Oil - 2 tbsp
- Lamb - 300g, minced
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Black Pepper - 1/2 tsp
- Cumin - 1/2 tsp
- Cilantro - a handful, finely chopped
- Butter - 100g, melted
Preparation
Preparing the Dough
Start by making the dough. In a bowl, mix yeast and sugar with warm water, then let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. In another large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour the yeast mixture and half of the vegetable oil. Mix until you get a shaggy dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a pan over medium heat, add the remaining vegetable oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. Stir in the lamb, and cook until browned. Season with black pepper and cumin. Finally, add the chopped cilantro and remove from heat. Let it cool completely before using.
Cooking Process
Assembling Bagyrly Çörük
Once the dough has doubled, punch down to release the air. Divide it into equal portions about the size of a tennis ball. Roll each portion into a circle about 1 cm thick on a floured surface.
Place a generous amount of filling in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges over the filling and pinch them together to seal. Flatten gently with your hand to even out the filling inside but avoid tearing the dough.
Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the prepared dough on it. Brush each top with butter to give it a golden crust.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. You can use a cooking timer to ensure the perfect bake time.
Enjoying Bagyrly Çörük
Bagyrly Çörük is best enjoyed hot and can be served as a main dish or a hearty snack. Pair it with a fresh salad or a bowl of yogurt for a complete meal experience. It's perfect for family gatherings and can be easily made ahead and reheated.