Turkmen Fish Churek
A savory bread unique to Turkmenistan, often baked with fish and herbs, providing a delicious and filling meal. It's a variation on the traditional churek, incorporating local ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 7 g Yeast(active dry)
- 250 ml Warm water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 300 g White fish fillets(cooked and flaked (e.g., cod, carp))
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 for brushing Egg yolk(beaten with 1 tbsp water)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 4
While the dough is rising, sauté the finely chopped onion in 1 tbsp of vegetable oil until softened. In a separate bowl, combine the flaked cooked fish, sautéed onion, chopped dill, and parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- 5
Punch down the risen dough. Divide it into two portions. Roll out one portion into a circle about 10-12 inches in diameter. Spread the fish mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- 6
Roll out the second portion of dough into a slightly larger circle. Place it over the fish filling, and crimp the edges to seal. You can flute the edges for decoration.
- 7
Place the assembled churek on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rest for another 15-20 minutes.
- 8
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the churek with the egg yolk mixture. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 9
Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is fully cooked and flaked before mixing with other filling ingredients.
- ✓Using a mix of dill and parsley provides a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- ✓If you don't have fresh fish, canned salmon or tuna can be used, but drain them very well.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the fish filling for a richer color and flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers into the filling for added texture and sweetness.