Description
Mediterranean flatbread combines zesty herbs, fresh ingredients, and traditional techniques from Greece and Turkey. Crisp edges and pillowy center invite cooks to explore regional culinary traditions with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ¼ cups (540 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 large (50 g) egg
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 8 oz (226 g) mozzarella cheese, sliced ¼ inch thick
- 6 oz (170 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 ½ tbsps (22 ml) olive oil
- ½ cup (120 ml) sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup (60 ml) black olives
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) water (for egg wash)
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Yeast Activation: Warm water and activate yeast in a sanitized metal mixing bowl, allowing foam to develop for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and fragrant.
- Dough Preparation: Combine sifted flour, salt, and sugar, then integrate olive oil and activated yeast mixture, blending until a cohesive dough forms.
- Kneading Process: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead energetically for 5 minutes, developing a smooth and elastic texture that springs back when touched.
- First Proofing: Place dough in a warm location, covered with a clean kitchen towel, and allow to rise until nearly doubled in volume, approximately 45-60 minutes.
- Shaping Technique: Divide dough into two equal portions, rolling each into rectangular shapes on a generously floured surface with smooth, even pressure.
- Topping Assembly: Arrange mozzarella cheese as a base layer, then strategically distribute sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta across the flatbreads.
- Seasoning Application: Sprinkle dried basil and oregano evenly, creating a balanced herb coverage that enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Egg Wash Finish: Brush exposed dough edges with a whisked egg wash to promote golden, glossy browning during baking.
- Baking Procedure: Position flatbreads in a preheated 500°F oven, baking for 10-12 minutes until crust achieves a rich golden hue and cheese melts completely.
- Serving Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, slice into wedges, and serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and crispness.
Notes
- Yeast Activation Trick: Warm the mixing bowl with hot water before preparing yeast to create an ideal proofing environment.
- Kneading Technique: Vigorously work the dough for 4-5 minutes to develop gluten and achieve a smooth, elastic texture that helps create perfect flatbread structure.
- Cheese and Topping Balance: Maintain a clear perimeter around the edges when adding cheese and toppings to prevent burning and ensure even baking.
- High-Heat Baking Secret: Use an extremely hot 500°F oven to create a crispy golden crust and quickly melt the cheese, mimicking authentic Mediterranean baking methods.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg