Homemade Turkish Style Lahmacun Recipe

Lahmacun recipe, also known as “Turkish pizza,” is a delightful and popular dish in Turkish cuisine. This thin and crispy dough is topped with a delectable mixture of ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, tomato paste, red pepper paste, and an array of aromatic spices. Lahmacun is a versatile dish, often savored as street food or served as a main course.

What is Lahmacun? – Cultural Background

Lahmacun holds a special place in Turkish culinary heritage, with its origins traced back to the southeastern regions of Gaziantep and Hatay. Traditionally, this mouthwatering dish was prepared in communal ovens called “sac” and served alongside fresh vegetables like parsley, lettuce, and tomatoes. A squeeze of lemon juice over the lahmacun adds a tangy twist before it is rolled up and relished.

In Turkish culture, lahmacun is a dish that brings people together, enjoyed during festive gatherings or as a quick and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for customization with various toppings and accompaniments. Some prefer to enhance the flavors with additional spices or herbs, while others opt to top it with yogurt or drizzle it with pomegranate molasses.

While beloved in Turkey, lahmacun has gained international acclaim, finding its way into Turkish restaurants and food stalls worldwide. Food enthusiasts appreciate the rich flavors and unique textures that Turkish cuisine offers, making lahmacun a beloved choice among global food lovers.

You may even prepare vegan style lahmacun recipe if you omit meat and plant based ingredients.

Lahmacun Recipe Ingredients:

• 250 grams of ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges

For the Dough:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 3/4 cup of warm water

Lahmacun Recipe Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, salt, and sugar for the dough. Gradually add warm water and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth and elastic dough. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise for about an hour.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the lahmacun topping. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, red pepper paste, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (around 500°F or 250°C).
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into thin circles on a floured surface.
5. Spread a thin and even layer of the lahmacun topping mixture on each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Transfer the lahmacun onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
8. Once baked, remove the lahmacun from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over it.
9. Serve the lahmacun hot, accompanied by lemon wedges on the side.
10. Savor the flavors of your homemade Turkish-style lahmacun!

Note: This lahmacun recipe recipe aims to provide information and inspiration. Feel free to make adjustments and variations according to your personal preferences.

If you are a fan of Turkish cuisine and savoury recipes you may want to try Turkish pita with cheese and meat recipe as well.