RecipesTurkmenistanTurkmen Kelyana Gozleme

Turkmen Kelyana Gozleme

A savory Turkmen flatbread filled with a mixture of finely chopped meat (often lamb or beef), onions, and herbs, then pan-fried until golden brown and slightly crispy. It's a popular street food and a comforting home-style meal.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Turkmen Kelyana Gozleme - Turkmenistan traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g All-purpose flour
  • 250 ml Warm water
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 400 g Ground lamb or beef
  • 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
  • 0.5 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped)
  • 0.5 cup Fresh dill(chopped)
  • 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
  • 0.5 tsp Cumin
  • 3-4 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter(for frying)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.

  2. 2

    While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, cilantro, dill, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, round flatbread (about 8-10 inches in diameter).

  4. 4

    Place a generous amount of the meat filling onto one half of each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.

  5. 5

    Fold the other half of the flatbread over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes during cooking.

  6. 6

    Heat oil or butter in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place one or two gozleme into the pan, depending on size.

  7. 7

    Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the meat is cooked through. Add more oil or butter as needed between batches.

  8. 8

    Remove from pan, let cool slightly, and cut into wedges to serve.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure the dough is well-rested for easier rolling.
  • Chop the onions very finely to ensure they cook through.
  • Seal the edges of the gozleme very well to prevent leakage.
  • Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the filling.
  • Serve with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

🏷️ Tags