Turkish Gözleme is a delicious, crispy flatbread stuffed with a savory filling of spinach and feta cheese. This traditional Turkish dish is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or light meal, gözleme is a comforting and flavorful treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Golden – Pan-fried to perfection, creating a deliciously crisp texture.
- Simple and Authentic – Uses basic pantry ingredients for an easy homemade version of this Turkish classic.
- Flavorful and Satisfying – The combination of spinach, feta, and mozzarella creates a rich and savory filling.
- Perfect for Any Time of Day – Enjoy it as a breakfast dish, snack, or light meal.
- Customizable – Try different fillings like minced meat, potatoes, or mushrooms.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Fold: Spread the spinach and feta mixture over half of each dough round. Fold over the other half and press the edges to seal.
- Cook the Gözleme: Heat a large pan over medium heat. Brush both sides of each gözleme with olive oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy hot, optionally with yogurt or lemon wedges on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Meat Gözleme – Add cooked minced beef or lamb with onions and spices for a heartier filling.
- Potato Filling – Use mashed potatoes mixed with herbs and cheese for a creamy texture.
- Mushroom & Cheese – Sauté mushrooms with garlic and mix with cheese for an earthy flavor.
- Sweet Gözleme – Fill with Nutella, honey, or cinnamon-sugar for a dessert version.
- Vegan Version – Replace cheese with plant-based alternatives or mashed chickpeas.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked gözleme between parchment paper layers for up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I make gözleme without yeast?
Yes! This recipe uses a simple dough without yeast, making it quick and easy to prepare.
What can I serve with gözleme?
Gözleme pairs well with yogurt, a fresh salad, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
Is gözleme the same as a quesadilla?
While similar in concept, gözleme uses a thin dough rather than tortillas, giving it a crispier texture.
How do I keep gözleme crispy?
Cook over medium heat and avoid stacking them while hot to prevent steam from softening the crust.
Can I bake gözleme instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, pan-frying gives the best texture.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with the cheese.
What type of feta cheese should I use?
Use a firm, crumbly feta for the best texture. Avoid soft or creamy varieties.
Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly denser. You can mix whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balanced result.
Can I make mini gözleme?
Yes! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Turkish Gözleme with Spinach and Feta is a delicious and easy-to-make flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and packed with a savory, cheesy filling. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, this traditional dish is a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and bring the flavors of Turkey into your kitchen!
