Traditional Turkish Bread Recipe

Traditional Turkish Bread Recipe (Ekmek)

Turkish bread, known as “ekmek,” is a classic everyday bread with a soft, airy interior and a golden, slightly crisp crust. It is commonly served with soups, breakfast dishes, kebabs, and dips.

Ingredients

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
1½ cups (360 ml) warm water
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

For the topping:

1 egg yolk (optional)
1 tablespoon milk or water
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast

Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough

Add flour and salt to a large bowl.
Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a dough forms.
Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover and let it rise for about 1–1½ hours, until doubled in size.

4. Shape the bread

Gently deflate the dough.
Shape it into a round or oval loaf.
Place it on a lined baking tray.
Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.

5. Add the traditional pattern

Mix egg yolk with milk or water.
Brush the top of the loaf.
Make shallow lines or a diamond pattern on top.
Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired.

6. Bake

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown.
For a crispier crust, place a small tray of hot water in the oven to create steam.