Experience the delightful flavors of Turkish cuisine with this Poğaça (Turkish Cheese Buns) recipe. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a delicious mixture of feta cheese and parsley, making them the perfect snack or addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack, Poğaça are sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s explore how to make these tasty cheese buns.
Ingredients
- 1 glass of warm milk
- 1 glass of warm water
- 1 teacup of oil
- 2 eggs (one with yolk for the top)
- 1 tablespoon of yeast (10g)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6.6 cups of flour (add in a controlled manner)
- 30g butter
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- 250g of crumbled feta cheese or grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, warm water, oil, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
- Mix the Dough:
- Add the salt and 5 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add the remaining flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the feta cheese, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. This mixture will be the delicious filling for your Poğaça.
Step 3: Form the Buns
- Divide the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll each piece of dough into a ball. Then, flatten each ball into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the cheese filling into the center of each dough circle.
- Seal the Buns:
- Pinch the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling, forming a crescent shape. Ensure the seams are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Buns
- Prepare for Baking:
- Place the Poğaça on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the Poğaça cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy buns with your favorite tea or coffee.
Tips for Success
- Controlled Flour Addition: Add the flour gradually to ensure the dough doesn’t become too dry. The exact amount may vary based on your flour and environment.
- Sealing the Buns: Make sure to seal the edges of the buns well to keep the filling inside during baking.
- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings, such as adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or using different cheeses.
Health Benefits
Poğaça are a great source of protein and calcium from the cheese and eggs. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals from the parsley. Enjoy these buns as part of a balanced diet for a delicious and nutritious snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any cheese that you like. Feta and mozzarella are traditional, but you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses.
Q: How do I store leftover Poğaça?
A: Store leftover Poğaça in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Q: What can I serve with Poğaça?
A: Poğaça can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of dips and spreads, such as tzatziki, hummus, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad.
Poğaça (Turkish Cheese Buns) are a delightful and versatile snack that’s perfect for any time of day. With their fluffy dough and savory cheese filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe and enjoy the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. Don’t forget to check out our other recipes for more culinary inspiration!
