THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Snack
Pogaça - A Delight from Turkey
This soft and savory pastry is a beloved snack in Turkish homes, perfect for breakfast or tea time. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Pogaça - A Delight from Turkey
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
FROM OUR VIDEO COLLECTION
Kickin' Chicken
Something delicious to watch next.
01
Activate Yeast and Knead Dough
Start by mixing the yeast and sugar into warm milk in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast softens and you see a creamy foam forming on top. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, the whole wheat flour, water, vegetable oil, salt, and the yeast mixture. Knead everything together until the dough feels soft and stretchy but not too sticky. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash of warm water. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest at room temperature for about 45 to 50 minutes, so it can rise.
02
Prepare dough and filling
While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking tray with butter. In a small bowl, mix the feta cheese with chopped parsley, a pinch of salt and pepper, and a little chili powder until it’s all well combined. Once the dough has risen, give it a quick knead for a couple of minutes, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a 2- to 3-inch circle using your hands or a rolling pin.
03
Fill and Seal Bundles
Spoon some of the cheese mixture into the center of each circle. Bring the edges up and pinch them together to seal the filling inside, forming a little bundle. Place each bundle seam-side down on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with poppy seeds for a nice finish. Bake the pogaça on the top rack of your oven for about 30 to 32 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden color. Let them cool slightly before enjoying!
Why you’ll love it
This pastry is soft, fluffy, and full of rich flavor. It combines a slightly crispy crust with a tender inside, making it perfect for any time of day. The blend of cheese and herbs adds a delightful taste that feels both comforting and special.
How to serve
These pastries are wonderful when served warm, straight from the oven. They pair beautifully with a cup of Turkish tea or yogurt. You can also enjoy them as a snack or part of a light breakfast spread.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate and reheat gently in the oven before serving. You can also freeze them and warm up as needed.
