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2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Mix everything together with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you get a soft but manageable dough.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much—you want the dough to remain soft.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat it in the oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bazlama:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions (depending on the size of the bread you want). Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a disc shape using your hands or a rolling pin. Each disc should be about 6-8 inches in diameter.
6. Cook the Bazlama:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the skillet with olive oil or a little butter. Once the pan is hot, place the dough discs into the pan, one at a time. Cook each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown spots appear and the bread puffs up slightly.
Tip: Press down gently on the bread with a spatula while cooking to encourage the puffing process. If the bread puffs up too much, you can make a small hole with a fork to allow the air to escape.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the Bazlama is golden brown and puffed up, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. For extra richness, you can brush the warm bread with melted butter. Serve it warm with your favorite dips, stews, or alongside a Turkish breakfast spread.
Tips for Perfect Bazlama:
- Use Full-Fat Yogurt: Full-fat yogurt adds moisture and richness to the dough, helping to create that soft, tender texture. If you use low-fat yogurt, the bread may be slightly denser.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: While it’s important to knead the dough until smooth and elastic, avoid overworking it, as this can result in tougher bread. Aim for just the right amount of kneading to get a soft, fluffy texture.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Make sure your skillet is preheated over medium heat so that the bread cooks evenly without burning. If the heat is too high, the bread may cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw in the center.
- Serve Immediately: Bazlama is best enjoyed fresh and warm from the pan. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them the next day by warming them in the skillet for a few seconds.
Variations to Try:
- Garlic or Herb-Infused Bazlama: Add minced garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a pinch of oregano to the dough for a flavorful twist.
- Cheese-Stuffed Bazlama: Before cooking, place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each dough disc, fold it over, and press the edges together. Cook as usual for a gooey, cheesy surprise inside.
- Sweet Bazlama: For a sweet version, add a touch of honey or sugar to the dough and serve the bread with fresh fruits, yogurt, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Why Bazlama is a Favorite:
- Soft and Fluffy: The texture of Bazlama is what makes it stand out. It’s soft, tender, and slightly chewy, with a gentle crispy crust that’s irresistible.
- Versatile: You can serve Bazlama with pretty much anything, from savory spreads to creamy dips or grilled meats. It can even be eaten with sweet toppings, making it an all-around perfect bread.
- Quick and Easy: Unlike many other bread recipes that require multiple rises or long preparation times, Bazlama is quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy fresh homemade bread without much hassle.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a bread that’s soft, fluffy, and versatile, look no further than Turkish Bazlama! With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this traditional Turkish flatbread is a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty stew, using it to scoop up your favorite dips, or simply enjoying it with a bit of butter, Bazlama is sure to win you over with its delicious taste and satisfying texture. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of homemade Turkish bread in the comfort of your own kitchen!
