Perfect Poaa Tarifi Turkish Bread Recipe

Discover the art of making Poaa Tarifi, a delightful Turkish baked good that combines tender dough with a savory filling seasoned with herbs and cheese. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing this traditional Turkish bread, ensuring you achieve the perfect texture and flavor with every batch.

Ingredients

2 cups plain yogurt 3/4 cup melted butter or margarine 1/2 tsp. salt 2 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. sugar 2 cups flour plus as much as the mixture can take in 1/3 cup Feta or goat cheese crumbled (Optional) 1 tbsp. fresh parsley finely chopped (Optional) 1/4 cup fresh herbs finely chopped 2 egg yolks 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or black cumin seeds for garnish

Steps to Make It

Prepare the Filling: Crumble the Feta or goat cheese with a fork. Add about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley to the mixture. If you are adding fresh herbs to the dough, omit the parsley. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, start by combining about 2 cups of flour with the yogurt, melted butter, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Work these ingredients together with your hands. Gradually add more flour until the mixture forms a smooth, firm dough that is as firm as an earlobe. Knead the Dough: If you are using fresh herbs in the dough, thoroughly knead them in. Decide the size of the rolls you want to make: for breakfast rolls, use a small plum-sized ball, and for bite-sized poaa, use an apricot-sized ball. Shape the Poaa: Press each ball of dough onto a lightly floured surface to flatten it. Place a small amount of filling in the center, fold the circle in half, and gently pinch the edges closed. Place the_poaa seam side down on a baking tray lined with grease-proof baking paper. Tuck the ends under gently, ensuring the roll has an oval shape with a wider center and narrower ends. Leave about one inch between each roll. Finish the Rolls: With a pastry brush, coat the top of each roll with egg yolk and sprinkle sesame, poppy, or black cumin seeds on top. Bake the Poaa: Place the tray in a preheated 350 F/175 C oven until the rolls puff up and their tops are golden brown. Serve: Serve the poaa while still warm with fresh fruit preserves and honey for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Embrace the rich tradition of Turkish baking with Poaa Tarifi. This bread is not only a tasty treat but also a delightful way to explore the culture and flavors of Turkey. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of this unique recipe!