One of Konya's Famous Dishes: Etli Ekmek

Etli Ekmek is one of Konya's most famous dishes and a true representation of the city's rich culinary heritage. This dish features thin dough topped with a mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices, then baked in a stone oven. Typically served in long, thin slices, Etli Ekmek is often enjoyed with ayran, a traditional yogurt-based drink. You can find Etli Ekmek shops at almost every corner in Konya, as it is deeply rooted in the local culture and has become synonymous with the city's gastronomic identity.

Konya Etli Ekmek Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups of flour
• 1 packet of dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 cup of lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the Filling:

• 400 grams of ground beef
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 green peppers (finely chopped)
• 1 tomato (grated)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup of olive oil

Instructions:

Preparing the dough:

• Place the flour in a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the dry yeast, sugar, and salt into the well.
• Gradually add the lukewarm water and mix, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour.

Preparing the filling:

• Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Add the finely chopped onion, green peppers, and grated tomato.
• Season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Mix everything well.

Shaping the Etli Ekmek:

• Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle or oval shape.
• Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
• Fold the edges slightly over the filling, leaving the top open.

Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 250°C (480°F). Bake the Etli Ekmek for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Serving:

• Serve the Etli Ekmek hot with ayran or turnip juice.