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Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the water, yogurt, olive oil, and white sugar. Stir them together until fully combined and smooth.
Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure that your dough is smooth and free from lumps.
Make the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring continuously to form a dough. Once the mixture starts coming together, knead it gently on a clean surface for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes. This helps the dough relax and become easier to roll out.
Roll out the dough: After the dough has rested, roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your recipe needs, or divide it into smaller portions if you’re making individual servings.
Cook or bake: Depending on the dish you’re making, cook the dough on a hot skillet for flatbreads, or bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving, assuming 6 servings)
Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 2%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 6%
The Origins and Popularity of This Dough Recipe This dough recipe, with its simple and accessible ingredients, reflects the many traditional doughs used across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and parts of South Asia. Many cultures have similar recipes that use a combination of yogurt and olive oil to create soft, pillowy bread products. The use of yogurt in the dough provides a tender crumb and slight tang, reminiscent of the classic Mediterranean pita or Turkish flatbread, while the olive oil gives the dough a rich texture. It’s no surprise that this recipe has become a staple in households around the world, as it’s both quick to prepare and versatile, serving as a base for countless different dishes. Whether it’s used for flatbreads, rolls, or savory pastries, this dough is a beloved part of many cultures’ cuisines.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe This dough is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Its soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor make it ideal for a variety of uses, from simple flatbreads to stuffed savory pastries. The yogurt in the dough contributes a subtle tanginess that adds depth to the flavor, while the olive oil ensures a light, soft crumb. Plus, the dough is quick to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of resting or complicated techniques, making it perfect for those who want a hassle-free bread recipe. You can also easily adjust the size and shape of the dough to suit any dish you’re preparing.
Health Benefits of This Dough This dough recipe is a more health-conscious option than traditional, butter-laden doughs. The addition of yogurt provides probiotics, which are great for digestive health, and it offers a lighter texture without the need for heavy fats. Olive oil, a healthy fat, is rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can contribute to better cardiovascular health. The dough is also relatively low in sugar and can be easily adjusted to suit your dietary preferences, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a simple yet healthy bread recipe. However, like all bread products, it’s best enjoyed in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions of This Dough This dough is incredibly versatile, and you can use it in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:
Flatbreads: Roll out the dough into thin circles and cook on a hot skillet or bake it in the oven. Serve it alongside grilled meats, hummus, or yogurt dip.
Savory Pastries: Use the dough to make savory pastries filled with spinach, feta cheese, or spiced ground meat. It makes for a perfect snack or light meal.
Pita-style bread: Shape the dough into small rounds and bake them into puffed-up pita pockets. Fill with falafel, veggies, or your favorite sandwich fillings.
Breakfast: Use this dough as a base for a breakfast flatbread, topped with eggs, avocado, and tomatoes for a healthy start to your day.
Tips
Kneading: Be sure to knead the dough thoroughly to activate the gluten, which will give the dough its desired texture. It should feel smooth and elastic when ready.
Resting the dough: Allowing the dough to rest for 15 minutes is important as it makes the dough easier to roll out and work with.
Adjust thickness: For softer, thicker bread, roll the dough out slightly thicker. For crispier, thinner bread, roll the dough out more thinly.
Adding herbs: For extra flavor, consider adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough before baking. It adds an aromatic touch to your bread.
Variations to Try
Herb-infused Dough: Add dried or fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano directly to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.
Whole Wheat Dough: Substitute half of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a more wholesome, fiber-rich version of this dough.
Sweet Dough: For a sweet twist, you can replace the olive oil with melted butter and increase the sugar. Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth.
Stuffed Dough: Roll the dough out into smaller circles and stuff with your favorite filling, such as cheese, spinach, or even a sweet fruit filling like apples and cinnamon.
Conclusion This dough recipe is a perfect base for a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, from flatbreads to savory pastries. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The addition of yogurt and olive oil makes for a tender, flavorful dough that can easily be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a savory pastry, this dough recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I substitute the yogurt with something else? Yes, if you don’t have yogurt, you can try using sour cream, buttermilk, or even milk as a substitute. Keep in mind that each option will slightly change the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough. After preparing and kneading it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge before using.
Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or any other neutral oil, though olive oil adds a distinctive flavor.
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