Poğaça, a mouthwatering Turkish pastry, is a beloved treat enjoyed throughout Turkey and the surrounding regions. This delectable snack is commonly served during breakfast, brunch, or as an accompaniment to tea or coffee. Poğaça is a versatile pastry with various fillings and shapes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
500g all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet active dry yeast (about 7g)
1 egg (for brushing)
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping (optional)
Filling options: feta cheese, spinach, potato, olives, minced meat, or a combination of these.
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Add the vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture and give it a quick stir.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing well until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour as needed.
Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any excess air. Divide the dough into small equal-sized pieces, depending on the desired size of your poğaça.
Take one piece of dough and flatten it with your hands or a rolling pin. Add your desired filling (cheese, spinach, potatoes, etc.) in the center and fold the dough over the filling to enclose it.
Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the filling and shape the poğaça into a ball or any other desired shape (triangle, boat, half-moon, etc.).
Place the poğaça on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece to allow for expansion.
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of each poğaça with the beaten egg. Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top for added flavor and appearance.
Bake the poğaça in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Once they are baked, remove the poğaça from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked poğaça with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful Turkish pastry experience. With its fluffy texture and delicious fillings, poğaça is sure to become a favorite in your household and among your friends and family.
Poğaça can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile and delightful treat. Here are some serving options to savor this delicious Turkish pastry:
Classic Breakfast: Poğaça is a popular choice for a traditional Turkish breakfast. Serve it warm with some butter, jam, honey, or clotted cream (kaymak) for a delightful morning meal.
Tea or Coffee Time: Poğaça is a perfect accompaniment to a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. Whether you're hosting a gathering with friends or enjoying a relaxing afternoon, serving poğaça alongside your hot beverages will surely be a hit.
Party Snack: Poğaça makes a fantastic party snack or appetizer. Offer an assortment of poğaça with various fillings to cater to different tastes and preferences. Your guests will be delighted with this flavorful and savory treat.
On-the-Go Snack: Pack poğaça for a picnic or take it along on your travels as a convenient and tasty on-the-go snack. Its compact size and easy portability make it a great companion for any journey.
Brunch Option: Add poğaça to your brunch spread to add a Turkish twist to your meal. Pair it with fresh fruits, cheeses, and a selection of other breakfast items for a delightful and satisfying brunch experience.
Side Dish: Serve poğaça as a side dish for lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and other Turkish dishes, adding a delicious element to your meal.
Party Platter: Create a poğaça party platter with an assortment of fillings and shapes to impress your guests during special occasions or celebrations.
Family Gatherings: Share the joy of poğaça with your family during gatherings and special occasions. It's a heartwarming addition to any family get-together.