Authentic Turkish Bread (Pide) Recipe: Soft, Chewy & Topped with Sesame Seeds — Just Like Istanbul Bakeries
Few breads are as iconic and beloved as Turkish Pide. Found in nearly every bakery across Istanbul, this oval-shaped flatbread is known for its pillowy interior, lightly crisp crust, and signature crisscross pattern, finished with sesame and nigella seeds. Freshly baked pide is traditionally enjoyed warm, torn by hand, and served alongside meals or simply dipped in olive oil.
This authentic Turkish bread recipe recreates the exact texture and flavor you’d expect from a neighborhood fırın (bakery). The dough is soft and elastic, the crumb is chewy and light, and the golden crust is brushed with an egg wash for that unmistakable shine. Best of all, it uses simple pantry ingredients and no special equipment.
Whether you’re serving it with kebabs, soups, meze, or breakfast spreads, this pide bread brings true Turkish bakery flavor straight into your kitchen.
What Is Turkish Pide Bread?
Turkish pide is a traditional yeast-leavened flatbread, distinct from pizza-style pide dishes. It’s commonly baked daily and eaten fresh, especially during Ramadan when it becomes a staple on the iftar table. The bread is shaped by hand, indented with fingertips, and topped with sesame seeds or nigella seeds (çörek otu).
The key characteristics of authentic pide include:
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Soft, airy interior
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Chewy bite
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Thin, lightly crisp crust
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Glossy golden surface
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Signature diamond pattern
Why This Recipe Works
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Traditional yeast dough for authentic texture
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High hydration for soft, chewy crumb
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Simple shaping method—no rolling pin needed
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Egg wash creates bakery-style shine
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Bakes quickly at high heat
Ingredients
Dough
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3½ cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
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1¼ cups (300 ml) warm water (about 40°C / 105°F)
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2 teaspoons instant yeast
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2 teaspoons sugar
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2 teaspoons salt
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2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
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1 egg yolk
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1 tablespoon yogurt or milk
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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1 teaspoon nigella seeds (optional, traditional)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures active yeast and a light crumb.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not dry.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Pide
Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval or round flatbread, about 1–1½ cm thick.
Using your fingertips, press a deep border around the edges, then create a diamond pattern across the surface.
Step 5: Add Topping
Whisk the egg yolk with yogurt or milk. Brush generously over the dough. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and nigella seeds.
Step 6: Second Rest
Let the shaped bread rest for 10–15 minutes before baking. This helps the bread puff beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The bread should sound hollow when tapped underneath.
Serving Suggestions
Turkish pide is best enjoyed warm and fresh. Serve it with:
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Grilled meats or kebabs
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Lentil soup (mercimek çorbası)
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Hummus, muhammara, or ezme
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Olives, cheese, and honey for breakfast
Tear by hand for the most authentic experience.
Tips for Authentic Bakery Results
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Use high heat to create the signature crust
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Do not over-flour the dough—it should remain soft
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Brush egg wash generously for shine
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Eat the same day for best texture
Storage & Reheating
Turkish pide is best eaten fresh but can be stored at room temperature for 1 day. Reheat briefly in a hot oven or skillet to restore softness.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Turkish Pide Bread delivers everything you love about Istanbul bakery bread—soft, chewy, golden, and beautifully aromatic with sesame seeds. Simple yet deeply satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.