Turkish Gözleme

Turkish Gözleme is a traditional Anatolian flatbread stuffed with a variety of fillings such as cheese, spinach, or minced meat, then cooked until golden and crisp on the outside. This beloved street food combines the comfort of homemade bread with the richness of savory fillings, offering a delicious taste of Turkish cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gözleme is the perfect blend of crispy texture and flavorful fillings. It is versatile, allowing for endless variations, from vegetarian-friendly options to heartier meat-based choices. The dough is simple to make and requires no oven, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. Whether served as a snack, breakfast, or light lunch, gözleme delivers authentic Turkish flavors in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Warm water

• Salt

• Olive oil

• Fresh spinach (or your preferred filling ingredient)

• Feta cheese or white cheese

• Onion (optional, for savory fillings)

• Ground beef or lamb (optional, for meat version)

• Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill (optional)

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.

2. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Prepare your filling: for spinach and cheese, chop the spinach, mix with crumbled feta, and season lightly. For meat filling, sauté minced onion and ground beef until cooked, then season to taste.

4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into a thin circle or oval.

5. Place filling on one half of the dough circle, fold over, and press edges to seal.

6. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Cook each gözleme for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Brush with a little olive oil or butter while cooking for extra flavor.

7. Serve hot, sliced into portions.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 gözleme
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spinach & Cheese: The classic vegetarian choice, pairing tangy feta with fresh greens.

• Potato & Onion: Mashed potatoes with caramelized onions for a comforting filling.

• Meat Lovers: Spiced ground beef or lamb for a richer, more filling version.

• Mixed Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and mint for a fragrant vegetarian option.

• Cheese-Only: A mild or sharp cheese, melted to perfection.

storage/reheating

Store leftover gözleme wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, or warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soft instead of crisp.

FAQs

What is Turkish gözleme?

Gözleme is a traditional Turkish stuffed flatbread, typically cooked on a griddle and filled with savory ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.

Can I freeze gözleme?

Yes, both cooked and uncooked gözleme can be frozen. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Do I need yeast for gözleme dough?

No, traditional gözleme dough is yeast-free, resulting in a thinner, crispier bread.

What kind of cheese is best for gözleme?

Feta or Turkish white cheese is most traditional, but mozzarella or cheddar can be used for a milder taste.

Can I cook gözleme in the oven?

Yes, although the stovetop method is traditional, you can bake them at 200°C (390°F) for about 10–12 minutes.

How thin should the dough be?

The dough should be rolled very thin, about 2–3 mm, to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

Is gözleme healthy?

Gözleme can be a healthy option depending on the filling. Spinach and herb versions are lighter, while meat and cheese versions are richer.

Can I make gluten-free gözleme?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture may be slightly different.

What can I serve with gözleme?

It pairs well with ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink), fresh salad, or pickled vegetables.

Conclusion

Turkish gözleme is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the warmth of homemade bread and the richness of savory fillings to your table. Its versatility makes it suitable for any meal, and its traditional roots offer a true taste of Turkish culture. Whether you prefer it with greens, cheese, or spiced meat, gözleme is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection

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