Lahmacun

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Lahmacun, sometimes referred to as “Turkish pizza,” is a popular Middle Eastern and Turkish dish consisting of thin, round flatbreads or dough that are topped with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices. These flatbreads are then baked until crispy and served with various garnishes. Lahmacun is a beloved street food and a popular snack or meal in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries. Here’s how to make lahmacun:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour: The base for the dough.
• Water: To form the dough.
• Yeast: Used to leaven the dough.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the dough.
• Salt: For seasoning.

For the Topping:

• Ground meat: Traditionally, a mixture of ground beef and lamb is used, but you can use one type or even a combination of other meats.
• Onion: Finely chopped onions are a key component of the topping.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and flavor.
• Red bell pepper: Chopped red bell pepper provides a sweet and colorful element.
• Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor.
• Spices: A blend of spices, including ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper, is used for seasoning. Sumac is sometimes added for a tangy flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh parsley and mint are typically added for freshness.
• Salt: For seasoning.

Preparation:

Here’s how to make lahmacun:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest and rise for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Topping: While the dough is rising, prepare the topping. In a bowl, mix together the ground meat, finely chopped onion, tomato paste, chopped red bell pepper, minced garlic, spices, and salt. Stir in the fresh parsley and mint. The resulting mixture should have a paste-like consistency.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to a high temperature, typically around 450°F (230°C), and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
4. Divide and Roll the Dough: Divide the risen dough into individual portions, usually smaller than a traditional pizza. Roll each portion into a thin, round flatbread or dough about the size of a personal pizza.
5. Assemble and Bake: Place each rolled-out dough on the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the lahmacun is crispy and the edges are slightly browned.
6. Serve: Remove the lahmacun from the oven and let it cool for a moment. It is often served with fresh lemon wedges, chopped fresh herbs, and sometimes a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add toppings like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Roll it up and enjoy!

Lahmacun is a delightful dish known for its thin and crispy crust, combined with the flavorful meat and vegetable topping. It’s often enjoyed as a street food snack or a quick meal and is a popular choice at casual eateries throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.