A high oven temperature is essential for achieving a golden crust and a soft interior. Preheat your oven to 450-500°F (230-260°C).
Steam:
Steam in the oven helps create a crispy crust and a soft, airy crumb.
You can create steam by:
Placing a hot, oven-safe pan on the bottom rack of your oven and pouring hot water into it just before baking.
Spraying the oven with water using a spray bottle.
Egg Wash (Optional):
Brushing the dough with an egg wash before baking adds a beautiful golden sheen.
You can also use a milk wash.
Traditional Shape and Scoring:
The traditional diamond pattern on Turkish bread not only looks beautiful but also helps with even baking.
Use your fingertips to create the pattern, or use a dough scraper.
Recipe Outline (Simplified):
Autolyse: Combine flour and water, rest.
Yeast and Salt: Add yeast and salt, mix gently.
Rise: Let the dough rise until doubled.
Shape: Gently shape the dough into a round or oval.
Proof: Let it proof again.
Scoring and Wash: Create the diamond pattern and apply egg/milk wash.
Bake: Bake in a hot, steamy oven until golden.
Key Takeaway:
Focus on high hydration, minimal kneading, and proper baking techniques, and you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly soft and golden Turkish bread.
Enjoy your baking!
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