Delicious Turkish Gozleme Recipe: Spinach & Feta

Delicious Turkish Gozleme Recipe: Spinach & Feta

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is "Gözleme"?
3. Ingredients
4. Preparing the Dough
5. Making the Filling
6. Cooking "Gözleme"
7. Serving and Enjoying
8. Variations of "Gözleme"
9. Health Benefits
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the traditional Turkish dish called "Gözleme". We will Delve into its history, ingredients, and step-by-step process of making this mouth-watering dish. Whether You are a food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this article will guide you through the process of creating delicious "Gözleme" right in your own kitchen. So, let's get started and embark on a culinary adventure.

What is "Gözleme"?

"Gözleme" is a savory, Turkish stuffed flatbread that is popular throughout Anatolia. The dough used to make "Gözleme" is usually unleavened and made only with flour, salt, and Water. It is a versatile dish that can be filled with various ingredients such as ground beef, spinach, cheese, potatoes, and parsley. Once the filling is added, the dough is folded and sealed, then cooked on a "saç tava" griddle or pan. "Gözleme" is considered a quick and delicious meal that is readily available as street food in Istanbul and Turkey.

Ingredients

To make "Gözleme", you will need the following ingredients:

• 250 milliliters of lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 4 tablespoons of milk
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• Filling ingredients of your choice (e.g., spinach, onion, cheese, etc.)
• Vegetable oil, olive oil, or butter for brushing

Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. You can experiment with different combinations of ingredients to Create unique flavors.

Preparing the Dough

To prepare the dough for "Gözleme", follow these steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 250 milliliters of lukewarm water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 4 tablespoons of milk. Stir well to dissolve the salt.
2. Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Mix with your hands until a smooth and unsticky dough forms. Add more flour if needed.
3. Knead the dough for at least 3-4 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Adjust the size of the pieces Based on the size of your pan and your rolling skills. You can make them smaller if needed.
5. Shape each piece into a ball, flour them on both sides, and seal them well with stretch film and a kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Let the dough rest for about 15-20 minutes.

Making the Filling

The filling for "Gözleme" can be customized according to your taste preferences. Here is a simple but delicious filling recipe using spinach, onion, and white cheese:

1. In a bowl, combine 500 grams of washed and drained spinach, which has been dried well. Cut the spinach into small pieces.
2. Finely chop 2 medium-sized onions and mix them with a teaspoon of salt. Rub the onions with the salt to release their Juice and soften them.
3. Add the onions to the bowl of spinach, along with a teaspoon of red pepper flakes (hot or sweet), black pepper, and approximately 200 grams of white cheese (you can use feta cheese or a similar alternative).
4. Mix the filling ingredients together with your hands, ensuring that the salt from the onions evenly coats the spinach. This will release more juice from the spinach, resulting in a moist and flavorful filling.
5. The filling is now ready to be used in the "Gözleme" recipe.

Cooking "Gözleme"

To cook "Gözleme", follow these steps:

1. Heat a griddle or a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. The traditional cooking method involves using a "saç tava", but a regular pan works well too.
2. Roll out each piece of dough using a rolling Pin or an "oklava" (a thick rolling pin specifically used for "Gözleme" preparation). The dough should be thin but not too delicate to handle.
3. Place a generous amount of the filling on one half of the rolled-out dough. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together.
4. Carefully transfer the filled "Gözleme" onto the hot griddle or pan. Cook each side for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown spots appear. Brush both sides with vegetable oil, olive oil, or melted butter to enhance the taste and achieve a crispy texture.
5. Continue cooking the remaining "Gözleme" in batches, making sure to roll out the dough and add the filling each time.
6. Once cooked, remove the "Gözleme" from the griddle or pan and place them on a serving plate. Cut them into desired portions and serve while still warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving and Enjoying

"Gözleme" is traditionally served hot and crispy, enjoyed by guests while they are still fresh from the pan. However, you can also make them ahead of time and reheat them later. They are equally delicious when served warm or even cold.

You can serve "Gözleme" as a standalone meal or accompany it with a traditional Turkish cold drink called "ayran". "Ayran" is a refreshing mixture of yogurt, cold water, and salt, which complements the flavors of "Gözleme" perfectly.

Variations of "Gözleme"

While the spinach and cheese filling is a classic and popular choice, there are endless possibilities for customizing the filling of your "Gözleme". Some common variations include:

• Ground beef or lamb with onions and spices
• Potato and cheese
• Mushroom and feta cheese
• Spinach and feta cheese with additional herbs, such as parsley or dill
• Different types of cheese combinations, such as mozzarella and cheddar

Feel free to experiment and create your own unique fillings based on your preferences and available ingredients.

Health Benefits

"Gözleme" offers several health benefits, especially when prepared with nutritious fillings such as spinach and other vegetables. Here are some of its health benefits:

1. Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach provides antioxidants, promotes healthy eyesight, boosts the immune system, and aids in digestion.
2. Cheese: Depending on the Type of cheese used, "Gözleme" can provide a good source of calcium and protein. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, while protein helps in muscle growth and repair.
3. Whole-grain Flour: Opting for whole-grain flour instead of refined flour adds fiber to the dish, promoting better digestion and providing sustained energy.

However, it is important to Consume "Gözleme" in moderation as it can be high in calories due to the dough and potential use of oil for frying. Incorporating a variety of fillings and balancing your overall diet with other nutrient-rich foods is recommended for a well-rounded and healthy eating plan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Gözleme" is a versatile and delicious Turkish dish that can be made in the comfort of your own kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create this savory stuffed flatbread and enjoy its authentic flavors. Whether you choose a classic spinach and cheese filling or get creative with your own combination, "Gözleme" is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary Journey with "Gözleme". Afiyet olsun!