Egg and Cheese Stuffed Bazlama: A Delicious Turkish Flatbread Recipe

When you think of classic, comforting dishes, few can compare to the universal appeal of fresh-baked bread paired with savory fillings. In fact, bazlama, a traditional Turkish flatbread, is a perfect example of this culinary harmony. Soft, pillowy, and warm, it serves as an ideal canvas for a variety of fillings. Moreover, in this recipe, we take this versatile bread and elevate it with a delicious stuffing of eggs and cheese—creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

Whether you’re a fan of Turkish cuisine or simply love trying new recipes, this egg and cheese stuffed bazlama will, without a doubt, quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love Egg and Cheese Bazlama

This recipe combines two beloved elements: the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread and the savory richness of cheese and eggs. What sets this egg and cheese stuffed bazlama apart is its flexibility and ease. The dough is easy to prepare, and the fillings can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer the tangy flavor of feta cheese or the melt-in-your-mouth quality of mozzarella, this dish can be adapted to satisfy any craving. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough for any mealtime, whether you’re hosting a brunch or preparing a simple family dinner. It’s hearty, satisfying, and truly irresistible.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Turkish flatbread stuffed with eggs and cheese. 🌾

500g all-purpose flour 🥖
10g instant yeast 🍞
1 tsp sugar 🍯
1 tsp salt 🧂
250 ml warm water 💧
100 ml plain yogurt 🥄
2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
4 large eggs 🍳
150g feta cheese, crumbled 🧀
100g mozzarella cheese, shredded 🧀
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
Butter or oil for cooking 🧈

Necessary Tools for Egg and Cheese Bazlama

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen essentials:

Large mixing bowl 🍴
Electric mixer (optional) 🥄
Rolling pin 🪵
Skillet or frying pan 🍳
Spatula 🥄
Parchment paper or a baking mat 🧻
Knife for chopping parsley 🌿

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

This recipe is incredibly customizable, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients:

Cheese Alternatives: If feta isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta, or even cheddar. For a richer flavor, gouda or gruyère would work wonderfully as well.
Vegetarian Option: Additionally, if you prefer a meat-free filling, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added depth and flavor.
Herb Alternatives: While parsley is a classic choice, fresh dill or chives can bring a whole new flavor profile to the dish.
Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add some finely chopped chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of smoked paprika.
Vegan Option: Moreover, to make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with a plant-based egg replacement (like tofu or chickpea flour) and use vegan cheese alternatives.

For a deeper dive into making traditional Turkish flatbread, check out this detailed guide on how to prepare Bazlama from Sugar Salt Magic, which offers helpful tips and variations to enhance your cooking experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions of Egg and Cheese Bazlama

Making egg and cheese stuffed bazlama is a straightforward process, and these detailed steps will help you achieve the perfect result every time.

Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir the dry ingredients until well mixed. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water, yogurt, and olive oil. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring constantly until a dough starts to form.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Once the dough is kneaded, place it back in the bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Be patient—this step is essential for achieving that perfect fluffiness in the final bread.

Divide and Roll the Dough

After the dough has risen, divide it into 6-8 equal portions, depending on your desired serving size. Then, roll each portion into a flat circle, about 1/4 inch thick. After that, you can use a rolling pin to help with this, ensuring each piece is even in size.

Prepare the Filling

Then, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs. Add the crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, and fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the filling is well combined.

Stuff the Bazlama

Take each rolled-out dough circle and spoon a generous amount of the egg and cheese mixture onto one half. After that, fold the other half of the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal.

Cook the Bazlama

Then, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Place the stuffed bazlama into the skillet, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. The outside should be crispy, while the inside remains soft and cheesy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the bazlama is cooked to perfection, serve it warm. You can garnish it with extra parsley or fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Success of Egg and Cheese Bazlama

Kneading Is Key: Make sure to knead the dough thoroughly for the best texture. A well-kneaded dough will result in a soft, airy bazlama.
Monitor the Heat: Moreover, always cook the bazlama on medium heat. Cooking on too high heat can result in burnt bread with raw filling inside.
Let It Rise Fully: Don’t rush the dough rising process. A full rise ensures the bread will be soft and light.

Serving Suggestions

Egg and cheese stuffed bazlama is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a fuller meal. Here are some ideas:

For Breakfast: Serve your bazlama with a side of mixed fruit or a fresh salad for a light and balanced breakfast.
For Brunch: Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or lentil soup to complete the meal.
For Dinner: Enjoy the stuffed bazlama with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or a yogurt-based dip like cacik.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over low heat, or microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed bazlama. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in a skillet until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of this egg and cheese stuffed bazlama (per serving):

Calories: 300
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and stuffing.

Can I freeze the stuffed bazlama?

Absolutely. Once cooked, let them cool completely before wrapping each in plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.

Is there a gluten-free option?

You can use gluten-free flour, but the texture will differ slightly. Add a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with elasticity.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but you may need to adjust the liquid content as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture.

Any vegetarian or vegan options?

For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based cheeses and egg substitutes. For a vegan version, there are numerous vegan cheese and egg alternatives available in the market.

Conclusion

Egg and cheese stuffed bazlama is an easy yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe offers a comforting balance of warm, soft bread and rich, savory filling. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this Turkish classic at home. And since the recipe is versatile, it’s perfect for experimentation. So, grab your ingredients, try your hand at making this delightful dish, and let it become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire!