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Homemade Turkish Pizza Lahmacun recipe photo

Turkish Pizza Lahmacun

Experience the vibrant flavors of Turkish Pizza Lahmacun! This easy, spiced meat flatbread is perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 batch pizza dough or no-knead overnight pizza dough

For the Topping:

  • 1 small red onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large tomato diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon tahini paste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon sumac spice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano leaves
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef or lamb
  • 2 teaspoons sumac for serving
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves for serving
  • Tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, jalapeño peppers and any extra toppings you like

Instructions

Cooking Steps:

  • Step 1: Prepare the Dough - Start by preparing your pizza dough. You can either use your favorite homemade pizza dough or opt for a no-knead overnight pizza dough. If using the latter, allow it to rise overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  • Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture - In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red onion, minced garlic, diced tomato, tomato paste, tahini paste, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, sumac, and dried thyme or oregano. Mix well until everything is well combined. Add the ground beef or lamb to the mixture and combine thoroughly. Set aside.
  • Step 3: Roll Out the Dough - On a lightly floured surface, take a portion of the dough and roll it out into a thin circle or rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining dough, placing the rolled-out Lahmacun on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Step 4: Top the Lahmacun - Spread a generous layer of the meat mixture evenly over each rolled-out dough. Make sure to cover the surface but leave a small border around the edges.
  • Step 5: Bake to Perfection - Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the meat is cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  • Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Once baked, remove the Lahmacun from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Serve warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves, sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of sumac. Add your favorite toppings such as tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, or jalapeño peppers for an extra kick.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet or pizza stone
  • Sharp Knife
  • Spatula

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For crispy edges, pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding toppings.