Turkish Pide with Spicy Lamb and Feta, Drizzled with Yogurt Sauce

Turkish pide, often referred to as “Turkish pizza,” is a flavorful and versatile dish that is perfect for those who love a combination of rich, spiced meats and creamy, tangy toppings. This version of Turkish pide features ground lamb sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika, creating a savory filling that’s complemented by crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. The entire mixture is spread over a golden, crispy dough, baked to perfection, and topped with a refreshing yogurt sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors.

This recipe is easy to make and offers a unique twist on traditional pizza, bringing the bold and aromatic flavors of Turkish cuisine right into your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a special treat, Turkish pide with spicy lamb and feta will leave everyone at the table craving more. It’s a great dish to share, packed with protein, savory spices, and the creamy tang of yogurt sauce, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Turkish pide recipe is the perfect balance of savory and spicy, with the tender lamb seasoned to perfection and the creamy feta adding a rich texture. The warm and soft pizza dough provides the ideal base, and the yogurt sauce drizzled on top adds a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the meat. Not only does this dish burst with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, especially with store-bought pizza dough. The addition of feta cheese and parsley enhances the overall taste, making each bite both satisfying and delicious. Perfect for dinner or sharing with friends, this pide brings the taste of Turkish street food to your home in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Ground lamb
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Ground cumin
  • Paprika
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley
  • Pizza dough
  • Greek yogurt
  • Lemon juice
  • Olive oil

Variations

  • Different meats: If you’re not a fan of lamb, ground beef or chicken can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
  • Spicier pide: Add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to make the dish even spicier, or mix in some diced jalapeños with the lamb mixture.
  • Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian alternative, try using a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers, and top it with the feta cheese.
  • Different cheese: Swap the feta with a different cheese like mozzarella or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor.
  • Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts could add an extra layer of texture and flavor to the pide.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cook the lamb

In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.

Step 3: Add seasonings and vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the lamb. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and the spices to become fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in feta and parsley

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Set the mixture aside.

Step 5: Prepare the dough

Roll out the pizza dough into an oval shape on a baking sheet, ensuring that it’s even and smooth.

Step 6: Add the lamb mixture

Spread the lamb mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure it covers the dough evenly.

Step 7: Bake the pide

Place the pide in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Prepare the yogurt sauce

While the pide is baking, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl to make the yogurt sauce.

Step 9: Drizzle the sauce

Once the pide is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the yogurt sauce over the top before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Check the lamb’s doneness: Be sure to cook the ground lamb thoroughly to avoid any undercooked portions. The meat should be browned and fully cooked before adding the cheese and parsley.
  • Use a pizza stone: If you have a pizza stone, it can help achieve an even crispier crust. Preheat the stone in the oven and bake the pide directly on it for the best results.
  • Don’t overfill the dough: Be sure not to overload the dough with the lamb mixture, as this can make it difficult to bake evenly. A thin, even layer works best.
  • Experiment with toppings: You can experiment by adding extra toppings like olives, bell peppers, or even a few fresh herbs sprinkled on top after baking.
  • Make your dough: If you have the time, homemade pizza dough will add a fresher, more flavorful base to the pide.

How to Serve

This Turkish pide is best served immediately, while the crust is crispy and the toppings are warm. You can serve it with a side of fresh salad, such as a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon dressing, to balance the richness of the lamb. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine or chilled ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink). If you’re serving it as an appetizer or party dish, cut the pide into smaller slices and serve with extra yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkish pide can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing to avoid excess moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze the pide for longer storage. After it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the pide back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until the crust is crispy again. If you have yogurt sauce left over, drizzle it over the reheated pide before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?

Yes, ground beef can be substituted for lamb in this recipe. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious.

2. Can I make this recipe with homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough will add a fresher and more flavorful base to your pide. Just be sure to roll it out thinly.

3. Can I prepare the pide ahead of time?

You can prepare the lamb mixture and roll out the dough ahead of time, storing both in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just assemble the pide before baking.

4. Is the yogurt sauce essential?

While the yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler version of the pide or substitute it with a tzatziki sauce for more flavor.

5. Can I use a different cheese besides feta?

Yes, you can try using goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

6. Can I add vegetables to the lamb mixture?

Yes, vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the lamb mixture for extra flavor and texture.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pizza dough as a substitute for regular pizza dough.

8. How do I know when the pide is done?

The pide is done when the crust is golden brown and the lamb filling is cooked through. If you’re unsure, check the internal temperature of the lamb—it should reach 160°F (71°C).

9. Can I freeze the pide after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the entire cooked pide. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add extra cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or fresh chopped jalapeños to the lamb mixture to increase the spice level.

Conclusion

Turkish pide with spicy lamb and feta, drizzled with yogurt sauce, is a mouthwatering dish that combines savory flavors, a crispy crust, and a tangy yogurt topping. This recipe is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its tender lamb, melted feta, and refreshing yogurt sauce, every bite is sure to leave you satisfied. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as an appetizer at a gathering, this Turkish pide is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Turkish Pide with Spicy Lamb and Feta, Drizzled with Yogurt Sauce


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

 

A delicious Turkish-inspired flatbread topped with spicy, savory ground lamb, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley, all drizzled with a tangy yogurt sauce. Perfect for a savory meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 lb pizza dough
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  • Cook the lamb mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Mix in the feta and parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
  • Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough into an oval shape on a baking sheet.
  • Assemble the pide: Spread the lamb mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
  • Bake: Place the pide in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
  • Make the yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
  • Serve: Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the hot pide before serving. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra flavor, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.
  • Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star