Hey Lykkers! Craving something crispy, savory, and packed with bold spices? Say merhaba to Lahmacun—a beloved Turkish street food that’s often nicknamed “Turkish pizza,” though trust us, it’s in a delicious league of its own.

Imagine a paper-thin flatbread topped with a zesty mix of ground meat, herbs, and veggies, baked until golden and fragrant. Whether you're feeding a crowd or treating yourself, Lahmacun is the kind of recipe that turns any meal into a feast.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and bring a taste of Istanbul to your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Lahmacun is a well-loved dish that originates from Turkey and the Middle East. It features a thin dough base topped with a spicy mix of ground meat, veggies, and herbs, then baked until golden.

You can enjoy it rolled up with fresh parsley, onion slices, and a squeeze of lemon—or devour it straight from the oven. Either way, it’s irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1 tbsp instant yeast

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

For the Topping:

- 300g (about 10 oz) ground lamb

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 1 tomato, grated or finely chopped

- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp tomato paste

- 1 tsp paprika

- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)

- 1 tsp cumin

- Salt and pepper to taste

- A handful of parsley, finely chopped

- 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

Combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Gradually add the olive oil and warm water while mixing until a soft dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Then, let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

While the dough rises, combine all the topping ingredients in a bowl. Mix well until everything is fully blended. You can use your hands or a spoon—just make sure it’s well mixed and spreadable.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Once risen, divide the dough into 6–8 balls. Roll each ball into a thin round on a floured surface—think tortilla-thin!

Step 4: Add the Topping

Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture evenly over each dough round. Don’t overdo it—less is more when it comes to Lahmacun!

Step 5: Bake

Place the Lahmacun on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone and bake at 450°F (230°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crisp.

How to Serve Lahmacun

Top your Lahmacun with fresh parsley, onion slices, a drizzle of lemon juice, or a bit of yogurt sauce. Roll it up and enjoy it like a wrap—or serve it flat with salad on the side.

Final Bite

And just like that, Lykkers—you’ve mastered one of Turkey’s tastiest street eats! Crisp edges, tender spiced topping, and endless ways to enjoy it—Lahmacun is more than just a meal; it’s a bite-sized adventure.

Serve it hot, roll it up with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, and savor every crunchy, flavorful bite. Want more mouthwatering Turkish recipes coming your way? You know what to do—just say the word! Enjoy your meal, Afiyet olsun!