Bosphorus Pide

A Glimpse into the History of Bosphorus Pide

The Bosphorus Pide is a traditional Turkish dish with roots deeply entrenched in the rich tapestry of Ottoman cuisine. This dish, commonly referred to as Turkish pizza, hails from the region surrounding the Bosphorus Strait, which has historically bridged the East and West, both geographically and culturally. Known for its boat-like shape and savory fillings, Bosphorus Pide reflects the diverse flavors of Turkey, ranging from the spicy meats of the east to the milder cheeses found in the west.

Ingredients for Bosphorus Pide

• All-purpose flour
• Dry yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Warm water
• Olive oil
• Ground beef
• Onion
• Tomato
• Green pepper
• Parsley
• Paprika
• Red pepper flakes
• Black pepper
• Butter
• Feta cheese

Making the Pide Dough

The foundation of any great Bosphorus Pide is its crust. To make the dough, begin by combining dry yeast, a pinch of sugar, and warm water in a bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the yeast mixture. Add a dash of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix the ingredients slowly, integrating everything into a cohesive dough. Knead the dough for approximately 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for about one hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Savory Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the flavorful filling that makes the Bosphorus Pide truly unforgettable. In a frying pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned, ensuring to break up any large chunks.

Incorporate diced tomatoes, chopped green peppers, and a handful of chopped parsley. Season the mixture with paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper to taste. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are thoroughly cooked. Set aside to cool.

Shaping and Filling the Pide

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape on a floured surface.

Place a generous layer of the cooled filling onto each oval, leaving a border around the edges. Crumble some feta cheese over the top of the filling and fold the edges over to form a boat-like shape, pinching the ends to seal.Butter the edges of the dough for a golden finish.

Baking the Bosphorus Pide

Place the filled and shaped Pide on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. For perfect results, use an oven stone or the bottom of a pre-heated tray as a substitute. Remember to check the cooking timer to ensure they are not overbaked.

Serving and Enjoying Bosphorus Pide

Once baked, remove the Pide from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to slice each Pide into portions. Traditionally served hot, Pide can be enjoyed as a main dish or as an accompaniment to a larger meal. Pair it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. Enjoy your culinary journey with the flavors of Turkey embodied in each bite of this exquisite dish.