The Turkish Spiced Beef Pide features a perfectly golden, flaky crust, packed with a flavorful and aromatic spiced beef filling. The combination of cumin, cinnamon, and paprika brings a warm, slightly smoky depth to every bite, while the fresh parsley and mint provide a refreshing contrast.
This dish is perfect for serving as a main course for family dinner or as a stunning appetizer for gatherings. It’s simple yet packed with bold flavors, and the crispy dough complements the savory filling beautifully. You can also customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making this versatile recipe a go-to for any occasion.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
500g lean minced beef
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
-
2 teaspoons ground cumin
-
1 teaspoon ground paprika
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
-
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
-
2 tablespoons tomato paste
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
-
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
-
500g ready-made pizza dough (or homemade dough)
-
1 egg (for glazing)
Directions:
-
Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) / 425°F / Gas 7.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened.
-
Add the minced beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
-
Stir in the red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for another 5 minutes.
-
Add tomato paste, salt, and pepper, then simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to thicken.
-
Stir in chopped parsley and mint, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
-
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a thin oval shape (about 30cm long).
-
Spoon the beef mixture along the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
-
Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form an open boat-like shape.
-
Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
-
Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Versatility of Pide
Pide is an extremely versatile dish. While beef is a popular choice for filling, it’s by no means the only option. Many variations feature lamb, chicken, or even a vegetarian blend of spinach, feta, and halloumi. This allows the dish to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. The beauty of pide lies not only in its flavor but also in the ability to customize it according to your taste.
Another appealing aspect of this dish is the dough itself. The base is made from a simple yet wonderfully soft and elastic dough. Kneading it by hand or using a stand mixer creates a texture that is tender on the inside with just the right amount of crunch on the outside. The dough is rolled into an oval shape, then folded at the edges to create the iconic “boat” shape that gives pide its distinct appearance.
The Spices that Make This Dish Special
One of the key elements that make Turkish Spiced Beef Pide so memorable is its spice mixture. A combination of cumin, coriander, and sumac provides a deep, warm flavor profile that complements the richness of the beef. These spices are staples in Turkish cuisine and infuse the dish with an authentic Middle Eastern taste. The sumac, in particular, gives a unique tang that elevates the dish and balances the savory flavors.
The addition of spinach helps to cut through the richness of the beef, adding a refreshing element to the filling. Crumbled feta brings a creamy, salty contrast, making every bite perfectly balanced. When all these ingredients come together, they create a flavorful harmony that is simply irresistible.
Perfect for Sharing: An Ideal Family Meal
Turkish Spiced Beef Pide is an excellent option for family meals. The recipe is easy to scale, so you can prepare several pides at once, ensuring there’s enough for everyone. The boat-shaped dough can be sliced into individual portions, making it perfect for sharing.
You can also get creative with your toppings. The recipe calls for fresh parsley and mint, which provide a refreshing burst of flavor. These herbs add a pop of color and a fragrant aroma that makes the dish even more appetizing. Serving the pide with a side of tangy yogurt sauce brings a cooling contrast to the spices and creates a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Pide
Turkish Spiced Beef Pide can be enjoyed in many ways. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad for a light, fresh meal. A green salad with a lemony vinaigrette complements the rich, spiced beef perfectly. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of pickled vegetables, which will add a sharp, tangy contrast to the richness of the pide.
For a more indulgent experience, serve your pide with a side of crispy roasted vegetables or a warm bowl of soup. A classic Turkish lentil soup (mercimek çorbası) would be an excellent choice, as it complements the flavors of the pide without overpowering it.
Why This Dish Stands Out
What makes Turkish Spiced Beef Pide truly special is its ability to balance complexity and simplicity. The dough is easy to make, and the filling comes together quickly, yet the result is a dish bursting with deep, aromatic flavors. It’s a great example of how simple ingredients, when combined in the right way, can create something extraordinary.
This dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a special celebration, it’s sure to impress. The versatility of the filling means that you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dish for Any Food Lover
In conclusion, Turkish Spiced Beef Pide is a dish that combines tradition, flavor, and versatility. It’s an exciting and delicious take on the traditional pizza, offering a unique experience for your taste buds. The combination of spiced beef, crispy dough, and refreshing yogurt sauce makes it a complete and satisfying meal. Its easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can enjoy this dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone looking to try something new, this Turkish pide recipe is a fantastic way to explore the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine. It’s a recipe that can be shared and enjoyed by everyone, making it the perfect addition to your meal repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, prepare the dough, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor.