Categories Entree Recipes 17/09/2023

Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

These thin, crispy rounds of dough are generously adorned with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. As they bake to golden perfection in your oven, your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of this Turkish classic. Lahmacun, often referred to as ‘Turkish Pizza,’ is not only a feast for the senses but a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Turkey. Whether you’re sharing them with family and friends or savoring them solo, these Lahmacun will transport you to the bustling markets and bustling streets of this captivating country.

Serves 4
  • 2 Hours
  • High Protein
  • Paleo Friendly
Ingredients
For the Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water

For the Topping

1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or lamb
1 large onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

For the Dough:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the active dry yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour.

  3. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if it’s too sticky or a little more water if it’s too dry.

  4. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

For the Topping:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, chopped red and green bell peppers, tomato paste, olive oil, ground cumin, ground paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.

Assembly:

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

  2. Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin round circle (about 1/8 inch or 3mm thick).

  3. Place each dough circle on a baking sheet or pizza peel if you have a pizza stone.

  4. Spread a generous amount of the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.

  5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the Lahmacun are crisp and golden.

  6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley leaves, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

 

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