İçli Pide

İçli Pide is a traditional Turkish dish, often described as a Turkish-style pizza. It is a type of pide which is a bread base topped with various ingredients, typically including cheese, meat, and vegetables. The term "İçli Pide" translates to "stuffed pide", indicating that the toppings are enclosed within the bread, rather than being placed on top.

History

The origins of İçli Pide can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was a popular dish among the sultans and their courts. It has since become a staple in Turkish cuisine, enjoyed by people of all social classes.

Preparation

The preparation of İçli Pide involves making a dough from flour, water, yeast, and salt, which is then rolled out into an oval shape. The filling, which can include ingredients such as ground meat, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spices, is placed in the center of the dough. The edges of the dough are then folded over the filling, creating a boat-like shape. The pide is baked in a hot oven until the dough is golden and the filling is cooked.

Variations

There are many variations of İçli Pide, depending on the region of Turkey. Some versions include additional ingredients in the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or eggs. In the Black Sea Region, it is common to use local cheeses and herbs in the filling.

Serving

İçli Pide is typically served hot, often accompanied by Ayran, a traditional Turkish yogurt drink. It can be eaten as a main course or as a snack, and is a popular choice for lunch or dinner in Turkey.

See also

• Turkish cuisine
• Pide
• Lahmacun
• Börek