Bazlama

If you’ve ever been to Turkey and you’ve had the incredible opportunity of trying the traditional dish bazlama, then it’s no surprise that it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Bazlama


Bazlama is a type of flatbread that is commonly sold like street food or can be found in Turkish restaurants. This unleavened dough is usually made from wheat flour, yoghurt and water. As it is rolled thin, Bazlama is often filled with vegetables, meats and cheese and then grilled or lightly fried. The combination of flavors and different fillings, as well as the crunchy and crispy texture of the flatbread make it an unforgettable culinary experience.

However, what makes this dish truly unique is its history and cultural significance. This delicious snack has been around for centuries and is traditionally served during special occasions such as birthdays and holidays.

This delightful dish is not just a treat, but an artform! The right balance between soft and crunchy, sweet and savory, and the perfect combination of herbs and spices is essential to creating the ideal bazlama. Each region throughout Turkey has their own recipes and ingredients which make this dish incredibly versatile and deliciously delicious!

If you’ve got a hankering for something extraordinary and delicious, then I highly recommend giving bazlama a try. You won’t regret it.

Bazlama recipes

Amazing Bazlama recipes sourced from the web.

The origin of Bazlama

The origin of the Turkish delicacy, Bazlama, has long been an intrigue to culinary experts and food enthusiasts alike. Though it is not certain when exactly its recipe was conceived, its history offers a tantalizing glimpse into the ever-evolving nature of Turkish cuisine.

Believed by some to have stemmed from the Pazlama dish—a popular snack among Turkish nomads—Bazlama has become a durable staple of the country's gastronomic culture. The original Pazlama, reportedly made with a simple combination of yeast, flour, vegetable oil, and baking powder, was sufficiently hearty to withstand the rigors of travelling, with its unique exterior providing a crispy texture while a soft interior remained intact. Through centuries, however, Pazlama has undergone a metamorphosis, evolving into Bazlama, a treat considerably more delectable than its predecessor.

Today's Bazlama, often referred to as the "breakfast of champions," is typically composed of wheat flour, vegetable oil and milk, extruded dough, and an amalgam of spices and herbs. A traditional topping of both garlic and sesame seeds adds a subtle yet tasty je ne sais quoi to the mix.

The renowned Turkish cookbook author, Ozlem Warren, tells us that though she opted for aesthetics over functionality, Bazlama can still be enjoyed while out and about. Speaking to us with characteristic enthusiasm, she said, “While Pazlama was created with convenience in mind (to provide nutrition during nomadic treks), I believe that Bazlama was perfected for pleasure (as an item of enjoyment)."

This notion of communal pleasure is further paralleled in the ubiquity of Bazlama’s presence at meyhane, Turkish taverns, where friends, family, and strangers alike can come together over warm loaves of Bazlama, sipping beers and chatting until all hours.

Bazlama may be Turkey’s best-kept secret but its popularity continues to surge across all borders. Its legacy, therefore, is one that will likely remain timeless.

FAQs about Bazlama

How do you eat Bazlama?

Bazlama is traditionally eaten with butter, honey, jam, or cheese. It can also be served as a side to grilled meats, soups, and salads. Alternatively, it can also be used as a pizza crust or in baking recipes such as cakes and breads.


Is Turkish bread the same as pita bread?

No, Turkish bread is not the same as pita bread. Turkish bread is similar to a baguette or a focaccia, whereas pita bread is a flatbread made from yeast-leavened wheat flour.


What is the name of Turkish flatbread?

The Turkish flatbread is called pide or pita.


What is Turkish flat bread made of?

Turkish flat bread is typically made with flour, water, olive oil, and salt. It is usually cooked in a hot oven or skillet.


Types of Bazlama

Bazlama - An Aromatic Delight of Different Cultures

The delightful dish known as Bazlama is a type of flatbread that originated in Turkey centuries ago. This staple food item has become popular across many different cultures, especially in the Middle East and parts of Eastern Europe. Depending on the area, local touches can be added to make different kinds of delicious Bazlama. Here’s a closer look at some of the varieties.

The original Bazlama is made in the traditional Turkish way of using wheat flour and yeast. The dough is often left to rest before being rolled and cooked lightly on a hot griddle. It is usually served with sides of butter, cheese, olives, or various types of herbs and spices. Turkish Bazlama has a mild flavor and a soft texture.

In the Middle Eastern region, Bazlama is also enjoyed. Lebanese Bazlama, for example, is made with a mix of whole wheat, white flour, olive oil, milk, and honey. This type of Bazlama has a slightly sweet, doughy taste and a slightly crunchy texture. It can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as labneh, hummus, and pickles.

Hungarian Bazlama is another popular version. This variant is made with cornmeal, goat milk, eggs, and sugar. The resulting bread is thicker than traditional Turkish Bazlama, and it has a strong aroma. It’s typically eaten with a spread of jam or honey.

The Armenian version of Bazlama is a version made from all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This type of bread is lighter than the others and is usually served with cheese spreads.

No matter which culture you come from, one thing’s for sure – Bazlama is an incredibly delicious and versatile dish. Whether it’s the traditional Turkish style, the Lebanese style, the Hungarian variant, or the Armenian version, you’re sure to experience a delectable treat!