Turkish Vegan Bread
This traditional Turkish vegan bread is soft on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, made with simple pantry ingredients and no dairy or eggs. It’s commonly enjoyed fresh from the pan, perfect for scooping dips, wrapping vegetables, or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Toppings:
Sesame seeds
Nigella seeds (black cumin)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Mix well.
Add the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 2 or 3 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round or oval flatbread.
Place the breads on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly floured surface. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If desired, brush lightly with water and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden. For a softer crust, wrap the hot bread in a clean towel immediately after baking.
Alternative Pan Method:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 2 to 3 minutes per side until puffed and lightly browned.
Helpful Tips:
Warm water should be lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
Nigella seeds give an authentic Turkish flavor, but sesame works beautifully too.
This bread is best eaten the same day but can be reheated briefly.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with hummus, baba ganoush, or olive oil and herbs.
Use as a wrap for grilled vegetables or falafel.
Perfect alongside lentil soup or bean dishes.
This Turkish vegan bread is simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying — a timeless staple that proves great bread doesn’t need anything fancy.