Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

Gözleme, or Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread), is a delightful flatbread that’s not only crispy and savory but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for brunch, picnics, or as a light lunch, these stuffed flatbreads bring a taste of Turkey to your kitchen. With their unique combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta, they offer a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Plus, they are simple to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The dough requires minimal ingredients and no fancy techniques.
• Flavorful Filling: Fresh spinach and feta create a deliciously savory mixture that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course; they fit any occasion.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time; they store well and reheat beautifully.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Turkish Gözleme, having the right tools will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Non-stick pan
• Bench scraper or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness of the dough for uniform cooking.
• Non-stick pan: Allows for easy cooking without sticking, giving you perfectly browned gözleme.

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, adjust to taste)
• 1 cup drained and crumbled feta

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

Step 1: Combine the Dough Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour using a fine mesh sieve. Create a well in the center and add salt. Pour in lukewarm water and olive oil into the well. Using clean hands, mix until you form a rough dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Dust your countertop with flour. Transfer the dough onto it and knead for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach and onions. Add olive oil along with salt, pepper, and Aleppo pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Massage the Filling

Use clean hands to massage the filling ingredients together. This helps soften the onions and spinach while infusing them with flavor. Add crumbled feta into the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After resting, place the dough on a floured surface. Divide it into six equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Cover with a damp towel to retain moisture.

Step 6: Roll the Dough

Take one ball of dough at a time and roll it out on a floured surface into a thin circle about 10½ inches in diameter.

Step 7: Fill the Gözleme

Spread approximately 1/2 cup of filling over one half of each circle, leaving about an inch gap around edges.

Step 8: Seal the Gözleme

Fold over the empty side to create a half-moon shape. Press down gently around edges to seal tightly; use water on your fingers if needed.

Step 9: Repeat

Continue this process with remaining dough balls, placing finished gözleme on a tray without touching each other while covering them with a clean towel.

Step 10: Cook the Gözleme

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook each gözleme for about 1 minute per side until golden brown patches appear.

Step 11: Keep Covered as You Finish

Once cooked, brush both sides of each gözleme with olive oil and cover with a clean towel while cooking remaining ones.

Step 12: Serve

Enjoy your Turkish Gözleme warm or at room temperature! They pair wonderfully with salads or yogurt dips for added freshness. Afiyet Olsun!

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

Turkish gözleme is not only a delicious dish but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re enjoying it for brunch, lunch, or as a snack, there are plenty of ways to enhance your experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing combination of diced cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in olive oil and lemon juice.
• Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, red onions, parsley, and a tangy dressing.

With Dips

• Yogurt Dip: Creamy yogurt mixed with garlic and herbs makes for a cooling dip that complements the savory flavors of the gözleme.
• Spicy Tomato Salsa: A zesty salsa made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers for an extra kick.

As a Snack

• Cut into Triangles: Serve sliced gözleme with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
• Warm from the Pan: Enjoy freshly cooked gözleme straight from the skillet for the best taste.

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

To achieve the best results with your Turkish gözleme, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Boldly Season the Filling: Make sure to season the spinach filling well before adding feta to balance flavors.
• Thin Dough is Key: Roll out your dough as thin as possible for crispy edges and even cooking.
• Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest helps gluten relax, making it easier to roll out.
• Brush with Olive Oil: Brushing the cooked gözleme with olive oil adds richness and keeps them soft.
• Serve Immediately: Gözleme tastes best when served hot; enjoy them fresh off the pan!

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

Pairing side dishes with Turkish gözleme can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to complement this delightful flatbread.

1. Greek Salad: A classic salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add flavor and nutrition.
3. Tabbouleh: A fresh herb salad made primarily of parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
4. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that’s perfect for spreading on your gözleme or enjoying alongside.
5. Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy eggplant rounds seasoned with spices provide a delicious contrast in texture.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles offer a nice crunch that pairs beautifully with soft gözleme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread) at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Not letting the dough rest: Skipping the resting period for the dough can lead to tough flatbreads. Allowing it to rest relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
• Rolling the dough too thick: If you roll your dough too thick, the gözleme won’t cook properly. Aim for a thin circle of about 10 1/2 inches in diameter for even cooking.
• Overfilling with stuffing: Adding too much filling can make sealing difficult and may cause the gözleme to burst while cooking. Stick to about 1/2 cup of filling per flatbread.
• Cooking at too high of a temperature: Cooking on high heat might burn the outside before the inside cooks through. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior without undercooking.
• Not sealing properly: If you don’t seal the edges well, filling may escape during cooking. Use a little water on your fingers to help close them securely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked gözleme in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 3 days when stored properly.

Freezing Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

• Allow cooked gözleme to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each one in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place gözleme on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fillings for Turkish Gözleme?

Yes! You can customize your gözleme with various fillings like sautéed mushrooms, mixed vegetables, or different cheeses.

How do I make Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread) vegan?

To make it vegan, replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and omit any dairy products used in cooking.

What is the best way to serve Turkish Gözleme?

Turkish Gözleme pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, yogurt dips, or as part of a mezze platter.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Gözleme (Spinach and Feta Stuffed Flatbread) offers delicious flavors wrapped in warm, crispy bread. It’s perfect for picnics, brunches, or light lunches. Feel free to customize with your favorite fillings for endless possibilities!