Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Gözleme, or Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread), is a delightful option for anyone looking for an easy yet impressive dish to prepare. This flatbread is not only crispy and delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for brunch, picnics, or even as a quick snack. With its savory filling of spinach and feta, each bite bursts with flavor. Plus, making it at home allows you to enjoy this traditional Turkish treat fresh off the pan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The dough comes together in just a few minutes, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, onions, and feta creates a rich, savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy these gözleme as a light lunch, snack, or as part of a larger meal spread.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with other fillings like mushrooms or herbs to suit your taste.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for gatherings or family meals where everyone can take part in the fun of cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread), gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Non-stick pan
• Bench scraper or large chef’s knife
• Clean damp towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients; a large bowl helps prevent messes during mixing.
• Rolling pin: Necessary for rolling out the dough evenly to achieve that perfect thinness.
• Non-stick pan: Ensures that the gözleme cooks evenly without sticking; crucial for achieving a crispy texture.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 1/3 cups (473 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)

For the Filling

• 4 packed cups roughly chopped baby spinach leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or pul biber, or more to your liking)
• 1 cup drained and crumbled feta

How to Make Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Step 1: Combine the Dough Ingredients

Use a fine mesh sieve or flour sifter to sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the middle and sprinkle on the salt. To the well, add the lukewarm water and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. With clean hands, begin incorporating the flour into the water and oil until you make a rough dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Dust your countertop with flour. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and knead with your hands for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s smooth. Place it in a bowl coated with olive oil and cover with a clean damp towel to rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach and onions. Pour in olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Stir in Aleppo pepper.

Step 4: Massage the Filling

With clean hands, combine everything thoroughly. This step helps soften the onions and spinach while infusing them with flavor. Add crumbled feta and mix again. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After resting, place the dough on a floured surface. Use a bench scraper or knife to divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and cover them with a damp towel.

Step 6: Roll the Dough

Take one dough ball at a time on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a thin circle about 10 1/2 inches in diameter.

Step 7: Fill the Gözleme

Spread about half a cup of filling over one half of each circle, leaving an approximately 0.8-inch gap around edges.

Step 8: Seal the Gözleme

Fold over the empty side to create a half-moon shape. Gently pat down to remove any air bubbles; use water on your fingers if needed to help seal edges.

Step 9: Repeat

Place completed gözleme on a sheet tray without touching each other. Cover them with a towel so they don’t dry out while you continue making more.

Step 10: Cook the Gözleme

Heat your non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook each gözleme for about one minute on each side until light brown patches appear.

Step 11: Keep Covered as You Finish

Brush both sides of cooked gözleme with olive oil and cover them with a towel while cooking remaining ones.

Step 12: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite salad or enjoy them on their own! Afiyet Olsun!

How to Serve Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Turkish gözleme can be enjoyed in various ways, making them an incredibly versatile dish. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a hearty meal, these flatbreads can be paired with numerous sides and dips to enhance their flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the savory filling of the gözleme perfectly.

As a Snack

• Cut the gözleme into smaller triangles for an easy-to-eat snack. They are great for parties or gatherings.

With Yogurt Sauce

• Serve with a side of plain yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping. The coolness of the yogurt balances the warm, savory flavors of the gözleme.

Accompanied by Pickles

• A side of pickled vegetables adds a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the flatbread.

With Hummus

• Pairing gözleme with hummus offers a creamy texture that enhances the overall eating experience.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and additional nutrients to your meal, making it both satisfying and healthy.

How to Perfect Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Making perfect gözleme is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game:

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
• Knead sufficiently: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth for optimal texture. This allows for better elasticity when rolling out.
• Roll thinly: Roll your dough as thin as possible without tearing; this ensures crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the filling.
• Seal properly: Make sure to seal the edges well before cooking to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
• Cook on medium heat: Avoid cooking on high heat; this can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
• Brush with oil: Brushing olive oil on both sides before cooking creates a delicious golden crust.

Best Side Dishes for Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Serving Turkish gözleme with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil brings Mediterranean flavors to your table.
2. Tabbouleh: This vibrant parsley salad made with bulgur, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice is both light and flavorful.
3. Roasted Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): Creamy roasted eggplant blended with tahini makes a perfect dip alongside gözleme.
4. Chickpea Salad: Toss together canned chickpeas, diced bell peppers, red onion, and parsley for a protein-packed dish.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine leaves filled with rice and herbs offer a delightful bite-sized treat that pairs well with gözleme.
6. Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup provides comfort and nutrition while balancing the meal’s flavors.
7. Fried Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini pair beautifully with gözleme’s textures.
8. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based dip with chopped cucumber complements spicy or savory meals wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread) is a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overworking the dough: Kneading for too long can make the dough tough. Aim for just 2-3 minutes of kneading until it’s smooth.
• Not resting the dough: Skipping the resting period makes it hard to roll out. Let it rest for 20 minutes to relax the gluten.
• Filling too much: Adding too much filling can cause leaks. Stick to about 1/2 cup per gözleme to ensure good sealing.
• Cooking on high heat: Cooking on too high a flame can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Use medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Not sealing properly: Poor sealing leads to filling spilling out during cooking. Firmly press the edges together and use a little water if needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked gözleme in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

• Wrap each gözleme individually in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread).

What type of flour is best for Turkish Gözleme?

All-purpose flour works best because it gives the dough a nice balance of elasticity and tenderness.

Can I customize the filling for Turkish Gözleme?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like mushrooms, herbs, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my Turkish Gözleme is done cooking?

Look for light brown patches on both sides. The edges should be crispy while ensuring the filling is heated through.

Can I prepare Turkish Gözleme in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! Just store them in the fridge or freezer as directed earlier.

Is Turkish Gözleme suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They are perfect as they store well and reheat easily, making them ideal for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread) offers a delightful mix of flavors wrapped in crispy goodness. This recipe is not only easy to make but also highly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite fillings. Give it a try, and enjoy this delicious flatbread at picnics, brunches, or packed lunches!