İçli pide

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İçli Pide, also known as stuffed pide or Turkish stuffed flatbread, is a traditional Turkish dish that is widely popular across Turkey and in regions with significant Turkish populations. This savory dish is made by stuffing a flatbread with various fillings, which can include meats, vegetables, cheeses, and spices, before baking it to perfection. İçli Pide is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, snack, or appetizer, making it a staple in Turkish households and restaurants.

Ingredients and Preparation

The basic dough for İçli Pide is made from flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough is kneaded until smooth and left to rise. The fillings for İçli Pide vary widely, but the most traditional version includes a mixture of ground beef or lamb, onions, tomatoes, green peppers, parsley, and a blend of spices such as paprika, black pepper, and sometimes sumac. Cheese, such as feta or Turkish kasar, can also be added to the filling for a richer flavor.

Once the dough has risen, it is divided into portions and rolled out into an oval or boat shape. The filling is then spread over the dough, leaving the edges free. The edges are then folded over the filling and pinched to create a seal, giving İçli Pide its distinctive shape. The pide is brushed with egg wash or olive oil for a golden finish and baked in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the filling is cooked through.

Variations

İçli Pide has numerous regional variations throughout Turkey, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. Some variations include:

• Spinach and Feta Pide: A vegetarian option that combines spinach, feta cheese, onions, and spices.
• Sucuklu Pide: Features sucuk (a spicy Turkish sausage), cheese, and sometimes egg, making it a popular breakfast or brunch option.
• Kıymalı Pide: Made with a filling of ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices, similar to the traditional version but without vegetables.

Cultural Significance

İçli Pide is more than just a dish; it is a part of Turkish culture and tradition. It is commonly served during the month of Ramadan and on special occasions and gatherings. The communal aspect of preparing and sharing İçli Pide highlights its importance in Turkish social life.

Serving

İçli Pide is typically served hot, straight from the oven, and can be accompanied by a side of yogurt, a wedge of lemon, or a light salad. It is often cut into slices, making it easy to share and enjoy in a communal setting.

See Also

• Turkish cuisine
• Pide
• Ramadan
• Flatbread