Egg and Cheese Stuffed Bazlama Recipe: A Delicious Turkish Treat

Bazlama is a traditional Turkish flatbread that’s often compared to pita or naan. Moreover, its fluffy texture is enhanced by the eggs and cheese, which create a melty, savory center that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or a seasoned cook, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and can be customized to your tastes. For example, you can experiment with different cheeses or even add some herbs for extra flavor. In addition, for more inspiration, check out the Mediterranean Flatbread Guide to learn how to make a variety of flatbreads for different occasions.

What is Bazlama?

Bazlama is a simple yet flavorful flatbread from Turkey, often cooked on a griddle or pan-fried. Typically, it’s a common part of Turkish breakfasts, but it can be served throughout the day, either stuffed or plain. Made with a dough base of flour, water, yeast, and yogurt, bazlama is soft, tender, and slightly chewy.

In this recipe, the addition of eggs and cheese turns this everyday bread into a filling meal. The dough is wrapped around the eggs and cheese, then cooked to golden perfection in a hot pan. As a result, this process locks in the flavors and creates a deliciously crispy crust, making it a comfort food favorite. Additionally, for bread-baking tips, consider reading Perfect Homemade Bread Tips to ensure your bazlama dough is perfectly prepared.

Ingredients for Egg and Cheese Stuffed Bazlama

To make this recipe, you’ll need some simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

1. Flour
   All-purpose flour works well for bazlama. Alternatively, you can use a combination of whole wheat flour if you want a more rustic texture.
2. Yogurt
   Yogurt adds a bit of tang to the dough and helps make the bread soft and fluffy. Traditional Turkish recipes call for full-fat yogurt, but you can use low-fat or Greek yogurt as well.
3. Eggs
   The star ingredient! Free-range or organic eggs work best, delivering a richer, deeper flavor.
4. Cheese
   The cheese you use will depend on your taste. Feta cheese provides a tangy, salty flavor that complements the richness of the eggs. For a milder taste, you can opt for mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
5. Olive Oil or Butter
   Adding olive oil or butter enhances the richness of the flatbread and helps to crisp it up during the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

This recipe is simple to follow, and with a little bit of preparation, you’ll have a delicious batch of egg and cheese stuffed bazlama ready in no time.

1. Make the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, yogurt, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients come together into a dough.
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
   While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Crack the eggs into a bowl and scramble them with a fork. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil, and cook the eggs until they are just set.
   Grate or crumble the cheese of your choice and set it aside.
3. Roll and Stuff the Dough
   Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a small ball and then flatten it with a rolling pin.
   Place a spoonful of the scrambled eggs and cheese mixture in the center of each flattened dough ball. Then, fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to seal.
4. Cook the Bazlama
   Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush the pan with olive oil or melted butter and place the stuffed dough in the pan, seam-side down.
   Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. At this point, the cheese inside will melt, and the eggs will steam, creating a perfect combination of flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the egg and cheese stuffed bazlama warm. Additionally, you can cut them into halves or quarters and pair them with a side of fresh salad or yogurt dip. Overall, this makes for a filling breakfast or brunch option.

Variations of Egg and Cheese Stuffed Bazlama

One of the great things about bazlama is how versatile it is. For instance, here are some variations you can try to mix things up:

1. Spicy Variation
   Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese and egg mixture for a spicier take on this dish.
2. Vegetarian Add-ins
   For a veggie-packed version, try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese and egg mixture. This not only adds color and texture but also nutrients while keeping the dish deliciously savory.

3. Meat Lover’s Version

• For a more indulgent variation, add some cooked sausage, bacon, or even ground lamb to the filling. These proteins pair beautifully with eggs and cheese, turning the bazlama into a heartier meal.

4. Herb-Infused Dough

• To take your bazlama to the next level, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to the dough. The herbs add a layer of complexity to the bread, making it even more flavorful.

5. Dairy-Free and Vegan Options

• You can easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free or vegan diet by using plant-based cheeses and tofu as an egg substitute. Vegan butter or olive oil works well for cooking the dough.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving egg and cheese stuffed bazlama, there are endless ways to make this dish part of a complete meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your presentation:

1. Mediterranean Mezze Spread

• Serve your bazlama as part of a larger Mediterranean feast. Pair it with a selection of dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush. Add a simple tomato and cucumber salad, olives, and roasted red peppers to the spread for a complete meal.

2. Breakfast and Brunch Options

• For a more traditional brunch, serve your stuffed bazlama with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad. A Turkish tea or coffee would be the perfect beverage to accompany this hearty meal.

3. Dips and Sauces

• Pair your bazlama with different sauces to elevate the flavors. A spicy yogurt sauce made with harissa or a garlicky aioli can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the eggs and cheese.

4. Light Dinner

• If you’re looking for a lighter dinner option, serve your bazlama with a simple green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. The crisp, fresh flavors of the salad will complement the warm, cheesy bread.