Authentic Turkish Lahmacun Recipe - Delicious Mediterranean Flatbread

🍽️ About This Dish

Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a traditional dish that holds a special place in Turkish cuisine. Originating from the southeastern region of Turkey, this thin, crispy flatbread is topped with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs before being baked to perfection. Lahmacun is not only a popular street food but also a staple dish enjoyed in homes and restaurants across Turkey.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

• For the Dough:
  • 300g all-purpose flour (unlü bürkeklik un)
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast (kuru maya)
  • 1 tsp sugar (şeker)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (tüz)
  • 200ml warm water (ılık su)
• For the Topping:
  • 250g ground lamb or beef (kıyma)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped (soğan)
  • 2 tomatoes, deseeded and finely chopped (domates)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (salça)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (sarımsak)
  • 1/2 cup parsley, chopped (maydanoz)
  • 1 tsp paprika (pul biber)
  • 1 tsp cumin (kimyon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

✨ What Makes It Special

Lahmacun showcases regional variations in its toppings, with some regions adding more spices or vegetables to the meat mixture. This dish is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sumac for an extra burst of flavor. In Turkey, Lahmacun is not just a meal; it's a social experience where family and friends gather to enjoy this delicious flatbread together.

📝 Ingredients

For the Dough:

1. In a bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1-2 hours.

For the Topping:

1. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the oven to 250°C (480°F).
3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each one into a thin circle.
4. Spread the meat mixture evenly on the dough rounds.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

⏰ Timing Guide

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 1.5-2 hours (including dough rising time)

🥂 Beverage Pairing

Lahmacun pairs beautifully with Ayran, a traditional Turkish yogurt drink, or a refreshing glass of Turkish tea. Serve Lahmacun with a side of fresh salad and pickled vegetables for a complete Turkish dining experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

• For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle sumac on the Lahmacun before serving.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the meat mixture to create your unique twist on this classic dish.

📦 Storage

Lahmacun is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the flatbread.

Enjoy the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Lahmacun, and bring a taste of Turkey to your dining table with this authentic recipe!