Turkish Chicken Gozleme Recipe – Stuffed Spinach Chicken Bread
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Turkey with this delightful Turkish Chicken Gozleme, a savory stuffed bread that combines the richness of minced chicken with the vibrant flavors of spinach, spices, and feta cheese. This dish not only offers a satisfying meal but also captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, making it perfect for a cozy lunch or a festive gathering. Let’s delve into this delicious recipe and discover how to prepare it step-by-step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1/2 cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Hung Curd (Greek Yogurt) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chicken (minced) | 250 grams |
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 1 cup (finely chopped) |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (finely chopped) |
| Tomato | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika Powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 3 sprigs (chopped) |
| Spring Onion (Bulb & Greens) | 10 sprigs (chopped) |
| Feta Cheese | 100 grams (crumbled) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | Varies with salt added |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
Servings
- Servings: 2
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
To commence your culinary adventure, gather a mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, hung curd, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, kneading the mixture until a firm dough forms. Once achieved, cover the dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting time will help the dough become more pliable, making it easier to roll out later.
2. Make the Filling:
While the dough is resting, it’s time to prepare the delicious filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then, introduce the finely chopped onions and continue to sauté until they turn golden brown, which will enhance their sweetness.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes along with a sprinkle of salt, cooking until they break down and become mushy. This will create a rich base for the chicken filling. Now, incorporate the minced chicken into the skillet, followed by the spice powders: cumin, coriander, paprika, and black pepper. Stir the mixture and sauté for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped spinach and mint leaves to the skillet, stirring until the spinach wilts and all excess moisture evaporates. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and allow the filling to cool down slightly.
3. Assemble the Gozleme:
After the filling has cooled, it’s time to assemble the Gozleme. Divide the rested dough into three equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it on a floured surface, dusting it lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Roll the dough into a thin circle, ensuring it’s even and about 1/8 inch thick.
Place a generous amount of the chicken filling in the center of the dough, making sure to leave enough space around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped spring onions and crumbled feta cheese over the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Carefully fold the dough from both sides over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal tightly. You should now have a rectangular-shaped flatbread filled with delicious chicken and spinach.
4. Cook the Gozleme:
Heat a flat skillet over medium heat and place the assembled Chicken Gozleme onto the skillet. Toast each side for a couple of minutes, or until the dough begins to firm up and develop a light golden color. Drizzle a bit of oil over the top and flip the Gozleme again, allowing it to cook until you notice lovely brown spots on both sides. This step ensures that the dough is fully cooked and crispy.
Once finished, carefully remove the Chicken Gozleme from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing it into triangles or quarters.
5. Serve:
The final touch to this delightful meal is serving your Turkish Chicken Gozleme hot and fresh. Pair it with pickled onions for a zesty contrast, lemon wedges to brighten the flavors, and a refreshing Couscous Raw Mango Salad on the side for a well-rounded meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Tips and Variations
- Substitutions: Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch the protein to ground lamb or beef for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Fresh dill or parsley can also complement the filling beautifully.
- Storage: Leftover Gozleme can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat on a skillet before serving to regain that delightful crispiness.
Indulge in this Turkish Chicken Gozleme and experience the delightful fusion of flavors and textures that make it a cherished dish in Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
