Turkish-Style Margherita Pide

Ingredients

While the original Margherita pizza is known for its thin crust and circular shape, our Turkish adaptation takes the form of a pide. Pide is a boat-shaped flatbread that is commonly enjoyed in Turkish cuisine. Additionally, we incorporate traditional Turkish spices and herbs to infuse the dish with authentic flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza Margherita, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (250g) tomato sauce 1 cup (250g) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup (50g) crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 14g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (3g sugars)
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. 2.
   Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
4. 4.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into an oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough ovals onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over each dough oval, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce, followed by the crumbled feta cheese.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the dried oregano and ground cumin over the cheese.
9. 9.
   Bake the pides in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
11. 11.
    Slice the pides and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomato sauce — Use a high-quality tomato sauce or make your own by blending fresh tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for fresh mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture, or use low-moisture mozzarella for a firmer result.
• Feta cheese — Choose a good-quality feta cheese that is brined for the best flavor and texture.
• Dried oregano — Crush the dried oregano between your palms before sprinkling it over the pide to release its aromatic oils.
• Fresh basil leaves — Tear the basil leaves just before garnishing the pide to preserve their vibrant flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or Aleppo pepper to the pide before baking.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced bell peppers, olives, or red onions to customize your Turkish-Style Margherita Pide.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, preheat a pizza stone in the oven and bake the pides directly on the stone.
• Serve the pide with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete Turkish meal experience.
• Leftover pide can be reheated in a toaster oven or skillet for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Turkish-Style Margherita Pide hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or share it as an appetizer during gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing glass of Ayran, a traditional Turkish yogurt-based drink, for a truly authentic experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Turkish-Style Margherita Pide, garnish it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried chili flakes. Arrange fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color. Serve it on a wooden board or a traditional Turkish serving platter to add an extra touch of authenticity.