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Embark on a culinary journey to Turkey with our tantalizing Lahmacun recipe! Known as "Turkish pizza," Lahmacun is a beloved street food that combines a thin, crispy crust with a flavorful minced meat topping. In this recipe, we'll guide you through creating the perfect Lahmacun, where a harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients transport you to the heart of Turkish cuisine. Get ready to experience the richness of flavors and savor a slice of authentic deliciousness.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup warm water
For the Topping:
- 1/2 pound ground meat (lamb, beef, or a combination)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground sumac (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Radishes, sliced
Fresh lettuce leaves
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned and cooked through. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, ground sumac (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Divide the risen dough into smaller portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Place the rolled-out dough circles on baking sheets. Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat topping over each dough circle.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the Lahmacun in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the Lahmacun from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve the Turkish pizza warm, accompanied by lemon wedges, sliced radishes, and fresh lettuce leaves.
Step 7: Savor the Turkish Pizza Delights
Delight in the flavors and textures of Lahmacun, a dish that captures the essence of Turkish street food excellence.
Congratulations! You've skillfully created Lahmacun, a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to the flavors of Turkey. With its crispy crust and flavorful meat topping, this Turkish pizza offers an authentic taste of tradition and gastronomic delight. Share the joy of Lahmacun with friends and family, and let them experience the vibrant tapestry of Turkish cuisine. Happy cooking and enjoy the delightful journey of Lahmacun!
