Turkish Bread (Ramazan Pidesi)

Turkish Bread (Ramazan Pidesi)
 Ingredients
Dough
4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp instant yeast (10g)
1½ cups (360 ml) warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp yogurt (optional, makes it softer)
Topping
1 egg yolk
2 tbsp yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
Sesame seeds
Nigella seeds (optional, traditional)
 Instructions

1. Activate yeast
   In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
   Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough
   Add flour, salt, olive oil, and yogurt.
   Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until soft and slightly sticky.
3. First rise
   Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
4. Shape the bread
   Transfer dough to a floured surface.
   Shape into a round, flat disk (about 2–3 cm thick).
   Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Create the pattern
   Dip fingers in water and press lines across the dough to make a grid pattern (traditional look).
6. Add topping
   Mix egg yolk, yogurt, and olive oil.
   Brush generously over the dough.
   Sprinkle sesame and nigella seeds.
7. Second rise
   Let rest for 20–30 minutes.
8. Bake
   Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
   Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
    Serve
   Best served warm with butter, cheese, olives, or dips.
   Perfect with soups or grilled meats.
    Tips
   Place a small tray of water in the oven for steam—this helps create a soft inside and slightly crisp crust.
   Don’t overbake or it will dry out.
   Brush with a little butter right after baking for extra softness.