Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza) is a delightful dish that combines a crispy flatbread with spiced lamb and fresh toppings. This Turkish pizza is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a casual dinner or looking for a unique appetizer to impress guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Preparation takes only 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Spiced: The blend of spices like cumin and paprika gives this dish a rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your Lahmacun with fresh herbs, cucumbers, or tahini sauce to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as an appetizer or main course, it’s great for gatherings and parties.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal without being overly heavy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you achieve an even thickness in your pizza dough, ensuring consistent cooking.
• Baking sheet or pizza stone: Provides the right surface for baking, giving the crust that desirable crispiness.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Lahmacun, or Turkish pizza, is a thin flatbread topped with spiced lamb, baked until crisp, and finished with fresh herbs, lemon, and tahini sauce.

For the Dough

• 1 pound pizza dough (at room temperature)
• Flour (for rolling the dough)

For the Lamb Topping

• 1 pound ground lamb (or a mix of ground lamb and beef)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• ½ teaspoon sumac
• 1 small red bell pepper (chopped)
• ½ small red onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 1 small tomato (seeds removed and chopped)
• Small handful of fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Fresh Toppings

• 2 Persian cucumbers (peeled and diced)
• 1 large tomato (seeded and diced)
• Fresh mint leaves (chopped)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Tahini Sauce

• ½ cup tahini
• Small handful of parsley or cilantro
• 1 garlic clove
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• Water (to thin the sauce)

For Garnish

• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon ground sumac
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Drizzle of olive oil
• Chopped parsley (optional)
• Additional sumac
• Aleppo pepper flakes
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Use your rolling pin for an even shape.

Step 3: Make the Lamb Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground lamb with turmeric, cumin, paprika, dried mint, sumac, chopped bell pepper, red onion, garlic cloves, chopped tomato, parsley, and kosher salt.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble Your Lahmacun

Spread an even layer of the lamb mixture over each piece of rolled-out dough. Leave some space around the edges.

Step 5: Bake in Oven

Place your assembled Lahmacun on the baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Tahini Sauce

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine tahini with parsley or cilantro, minced garlic, lemon juice, kosher salt, and enough water to reach desired consistency.
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked:
– Top with diced cucumbers, fresh tomatoes, mint leaves.
– Drizzle with tahini sauce.
– Garnish with thinly sliced onions, extra sumac, Aleppo pepper flakes if desired.
– Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Lamb Lahmacun!

How to Serve Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Lamb Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Serving it with the right sides or toppings can elevate your dining experience and bring out the rich flavors of the lamb.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley and mint: A sprinkle of these fresh herbs enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing touch.

Lemon Wedges

• Zesty squeeze: Serving lemon wedges allows guests to add a bright citrus note that complements the spiced lamb.

Tahini Sauce

• Creamy drizzle: A tahini sauce offers a nutty, creamy element that balances the spices of the lamb topping.

Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy crunch: Pickled cucumbers or radishes provide a tangy contrast and add an additional layer of flavor.

Salad

• Light greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers can provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm flatbread.

Spicy Condiments

• Aleppo pepper flakes: A sprinkle of Aleppo pepper flakes can add an extra kick for those who enjoy some heat.

How to Perfect Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

To achieve the best results with your Lamb Lahmacun, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and appealing every time you make it.

• Boldly season your meat: Make sure to season your ground lamb well with spices like cumin and paprika for a rich flavor profile.
• Use high-quality dough: Opt for fresh pizza dough for better texture. Homemade dough can also enhance the overall taste.
• Preheat properly: Ensure your oven or pizza stone is hot enough before baking. This helps achieve that crispy crust.
• Spread evenly: When topping your dough, spread the lamb mixture evenly for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to customize your lahmacun with additional toppings like roasted vegetables or different herbs.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your lahmacun straight from the oven while it’s still warm and crisp for the best experience.

Best Side Dishes for Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Pairing side dishes with Lamb Lahmacun enhances its flavors and creates a more fulfilling meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Tabbouleh Salad
   A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice that adds brightness to your meal.

2. Cucumber Yogurt Salad
   Cool cucumber slices mixed with yogurt, garlic, and herbs create a creamy side that balances the spices in lahmacun.

3. Roasted Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush)
   This smoky dip pairs wonderfully with lahmacun, offering a rich texture and depth of flavor.

4. Hummus
   Creamy chickpea hummus served with pita chips makes for a delicious accompaniment that’s always popular.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   Flavorful grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs provide a delightful bite alongside lahmacun.

6. Fattoush Salad
   A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing adds crunch and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish pizza) can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Dough: Always let your pizza dough reach room temperature before rolling. Cold dough can be hard to stretch and may result in uneven cooking.
• Overloading Toppings: Less is more! Too many toppings can make the flatbread soggy. Stick to a balanced amount of spiced lamb and fresh veggies.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t under-season your lamb mixture. Use all the suggested spices to enhance flavor and create a truly authentic taste.
• Neglecting Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven adequately. A hot oven ensures the lahmacun crisps up perfectly, while a cooler oven may leave it chewy.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables make a big difference. Always opt for fresh parsley, cucumbers, and mint for the best flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked lahmacun in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, use the microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Note that this may make the crust softer.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for around 5 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy while warming the topping evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza).

What is Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)?

Lamb Lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with spiced ground lamb, baked until crisp, often served with fresh herbs and lemon.

Can I use chicken instead of lamb?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning slightly as chicken may require more flavor.

How do I make my Lamb Lahmacun spicy?

To add spice, incorporate Aleppo pepper flakes into the lamb mixture or serve with additional chili flakes on top.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pizza dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Lamb Lahmacun (Turkish pizza) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize your toppings based on personal preference, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and impress your family or friends with an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine!