Gözleme

Gözleme is a traditional Turkish savory flatbread and pastry dish. It is made of hand-rolled dough that is lightly brushed with butter and eggs, filled with various ingredients, sealed, and cooked over a griddle. The name derives from the Turkish word "göz," meaning "compartment," in reference to the pocket of dough in which the fillings are placed.

Ingredients and Preparation

The dough for Gözleme is typically made from flour, water, salt, and sometimes yeast. The dough is rolled out into thin, large circles. The fillings can vary widely, but common ingredients include:

• Spinach
• Feta
• Potato
• Minced meat
• Onion
• Parsley

Once the dough is rolled out, the filling is spread over half of the circle, and the other half is folded over to enclose the filling. The edges are pressed together to seal the pocket. The Gözleme is then cooked on a griddle or a traditional Turkish sac until it is golden brown and crispy.

Varieties

There are several popular varieties of Gözleme, each named after its primary filling:

• Ispanaklı Gözleme: Filled with spinach and feta cheese.
• Patatesli Gözleme: Filled with mashed potatoes and spices.
• Kıymalı Gözleme: Filled with ground meat (usually lamb or beef) and onion.
• Peynirli Gözleme: Filled with various types of cheese.

Cultural Significance

Gözleme is a popular street food in Turkey and is often sold at local markets and festivals. It is also a common homemade dish, enjoyed by families for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. The preparation of Gözleme is often a communal activity, with family members gathering to roll out the dough and prepare the fillings.

Serving

Gözleme is typically served hot, often with a side of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal.

See Also

• Turkish cuisine
• Flatbread
• Pastry
• Street food