Turkish Vegan Bread

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine with our delectable Turkish vegan bread recipe. This traditional bread, boasting a soft and pillowy texture with a hint of aromatic spices, promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Istanbul. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe offers a delightful journey into the heart of Turkish gastronomy. Let’s dive into the art of making Turkish vegan bread and discover the magic of its flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 750g White Bread Flour + 3–4 tbsp Flour for Kneading
• 370ml Warm Water
• 250ml Warm Unsweetened Almond Milk
• 2–3 tbsp Olive Oil
• 10g (2.5 tsp) Instant Dry Yeast
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Sugar

For the Glaze:

• 1 tbsp Vegan Butter
• 1 tbsp Vegan Yoghurt
• 1 tbsp Date Molasses (Any Molasses Will Do)
• 1 tsp All-Purpose Flour
• Pinch of Turmeric

Topping:

• 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
• 1 tbsp Nigella Seeds

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, warm unsweetened almond milk, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the white bread flour to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together vegan butter, vegan yoghurt, date molasses, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of turmeric until well combined. Set aside.
5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into round loaves and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Apply the Glaze: Brush the risen loaves with the prepared glaze mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
9. Add Toppings: Sprinkle sesame seeds and nigella seeds generously over the glazed loaves.
10. Bake the Bread: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool and Serve: Remove the Turkish vegan bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Flour Substitution: You can experiment with different types of flour such as whole wheat flour or spelt flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits.
• Spice Variation: Enhance the flavor of your bread by adding a pinch of ground cumin, ground coriander, or dried mint to the dough.
• Sweet Glaze: For a sweeter glaze, substitute date molasses with honey or maple syrup.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or cilantro into the dough for a burst of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant dry yeast? A: Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the flour mixture.

Q: Can I freeze the bread dough for later use? A: Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough before the second rise. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before allowing it to rise and baking as directed.

Q: Is there a substitute for almond milk? A: Yes, you can use any plant-based milk of your choice such as soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications:

• Substitute almond flour for white bread flour to reduce the carb content.
• Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia instead of sugar.
• Skip the date molasses in the glaze or use a sugar-free alternative.

In conclusion, our Turkish vegan bread recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that is sure to delight your palate. Whether enjoyed on its own, served alongside your favorite dips and spreads, or paired with a hearty Turkish meal, this bread is a versatile and delicious addition to any table. With its soft interior, crisp crust, and aromatic toppings, it’s a true testament to the culinary traditions of Turkey. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of bread-making and the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine!