Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of spices sizzling in olive oil filled the air, taking me straight back to the vibrant streets of Istanbul. That’s when I knew it was time to indulge in something special: Turkish Gozleme with Lamb. This delightful dish, with its flaky, crispy exterior and savory filling of minced lamb, fresh herbs, and crumbly feta, not only satisfies your cravings but also warms the soul. Quick to prepare and perfect for sharing, this homemade comfort food is guaranteed to become a family favorite, leaving no room for leftovers! Are you ready to create your own little piece of culinary magic? Let’s dive into this comforting journey together! Why You’ll Love Turkish Gozleme? Homemade Delight: There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating your own flaky Turkish Gozleme at home. It’s a great way to show off your culinary skills while enjoying a traditional dish loved by so many. Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a perfect medley of spiced lamb, fresh herbs, and creamy feta, offering a robust flavor that’s both comforting and heartwarming. Customizable Creations: This recipe is a canvas for your creativity! Use leftover chicken, or opt for a vegetarian filling, as seen in our Feta Cranberry Rigatoni for a twist. Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving up to friends or family, the crispy, golden-brown gozleme is an eye-catching centerpiece that’s sure to impress! This recipe promises satisfaction that rivals even the best street food experience. Let’s get cooking and share this delicious tradition! Turkish Gozleme with Lamb Ingredients For the Dough All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the dough; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option. Salt – Enhances flavor; using kosher or sea salt improves taste. Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and tenderness; substitute with plain yogurt or sour cream. Water – Hydrates the dough; adjust based on your environment’s humidity. Olive oil – Used for sautéing the filling; vegetable oil can be a suitable replacement. For the Filling Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the filling; yellow or white onions work well too. Garlic – Adds flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred over powdered. Ground lamb – The main protein source; try beef, pork, or a vegetable mix for a meatless option. Tomato paste – Adds richness; replace it with fresh tomatoes for a lighter flavor. Coriander (ground) – Spices the filling with warmth; ground cumin makes for a good substitute. Smoked paprika – Provides a smoky flavor; regular paprika can work in a pinch. Cumin (ground) – Essential for flavor; omit for a milder taste. Spinach (frozen, thawed, and chopped) – Adds nutrition and color; fresh spinach is also an option. Fresh mint – Offers a burst of freshness; basil is a good alternative. Green onions – Adds crunch and mild onion flavor; chives can replace them. Fresh parsley – Contributes brightness; cilantro can serve as a contrasting herb. Feta cheese (crumbled) – Provides creaminess and tang; goat cheese can offer a different taste. Tomato (chopped) – Adds moisture and freshness to the filling. This delightful combination of ingredients ensures your homemade Turkish Gozleme with Lamb is a culinary journey worth embarking on! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkish Gozleme with Lamb Step 1: Dough Preparation In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt, creating a well in the center. Gradually mix in Greek yogurt and water until the dough start forming. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for about 3 minutes until it becomes slightly elastic and smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to enhance its texture. Step 2: Filling Preparation Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant. Next, stir in the ground lamb and cook, breaking it apart, until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Mix in tomato paste, spices, and spinach, then continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool. Step 3: Assembly Once the dough has rested, divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, around 1/8 inch thick. On one half of each rectangle, layer the cooled lamb filling, sprinkling fresh mint, green onions, parsley, crumbled feta, and chopped tomato on top. Fold the other half over the filling and press down firmly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes. Step 4: Cooking the Gozleme In the same skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place one gozleme in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. Flip it over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Repeat the process for the remaining gozleme, adding oil as needed to achieve that golden-brown crust. Step 5: Serving Once cooked, remove the gozleme from the skillet and let them sit for a minute before cutting. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. This delightful Turkish Gozleme with Lamb is best enjoyed fresh, allowing everyone to share in the warmth and flavor of this comforting homemade dish. What to Serve with Flaky Turkish Gozleme with Spiced Lamb & Feta A warm plate of Turkish Gozleme brings delight to any gathering, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Crispy Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette perfect for cutting through the richness of the gozleme. Tzatziki Sauce: The cool, creamy yogurt-based sauce adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the flavors of the spiced lamb filling. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil provides a warm, earthy component that complements the hearty gozleme. Minted Yogurt Dip: Elevate your dish with a simple yogurt dip infused with fresh mint, balancing the savory qualities of your gozleme. Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy side brings a wholesome texture, with herbs adding a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the lamb. Pomegranate Seeds: Sprinkle these bright jewels over your serving dish for a lovely crunch and a sweet-tart flavor to enhance every bite. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed side with tangy dressing and crisp vegetables adds texture and nutrients, balancing the meal perfectly. Lemon Wedges: Don’t forget to serve fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the gozleme; it brightens the flavors and adds a zesty lift! These complementary sides make your Turkish Gozleme with Lamb a truly unforgettable experience for your family and friends! How to Store and Freeze Turkish Gozleme Fridge: Place any leftover Turkish Gozleme with Lamb in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked gozleme in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: For the best texture, reheat thawed gozleme in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until heated through and crispy. Make-ahead Tip: You can also prepare the filling in advance and assemble the gozleme right before cooking, allowing for easy weeknight meals. Make Ahead Options These delightful Turkish Gozleme with Lamb are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, kneading it, and then resting it in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap. The filling can be made up to 3 days ahead—just sauté the ingredients, let them cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, roll out the dough, assemble the gozleme with your prepped filling, and cook them in a skillet for sumptuous, golden-brown results that are just as delicious as when freshly made! Turkish Gozleme with Lamb Variations Get ready to add your personal touch to this delicious recipe! Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground lamb with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and mixed veggies for a hearty plant-based option. The earthiness of the mushrooms paired with fresh herbs brightens the dish! Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the filling for a fiery twist. Don’t be shy about spicing it up; the heat beautifully complements the savory flavors! Cheesy Addition: Toss in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar along with the feta for extra creaminess and a delightful stretch. This added layer of cheese makes every bite a gooey explosion of flavor. Herb Variations: Switch up the herbs! Try fresh dill or tarragon instead of mint for a different flavor profile that’s equally refreshing. The unique taste will elevate your gozleme experience! Whole Wheat Twist: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the dough to boost fiber and nutrition. The nutty taste adds a wonderful depth to this comforting dish. Zesty Refresher: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the filling before assembling for a zesty brightness. This accentuates the spices and adds a lovely contrast to the richness of the lamb. Middle-Eastern Fusion: Experiment with traditional Middle-Eastern spices like za’atar or sumac to enhance the flavor profile. This adventurous twist can make your Turkish Gozleme with Lamb stand out even more. Feel free to play around and let your creativity shine just like you would with a refreshing Beet Burrata Salad! Your perfect homemade gozleme awaits! Expert Tips for Turkish Gozleme Perfect Dough Resting: Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes. This enhances its elasticity, making it easier to roll out without tearing. Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the gozleme, don’t overcrowd the skillet. This ensures that each piece gets evenly crispy and golden brown. Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the lamb filling to suit your taste. Add chili flakes for an extra kick in your Turkish Gozleme with Lamb. Watch Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the filling; it should be warm but not steaming. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy during cooking. Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try different fillings! Use leftover meats or a variety of vegetables to customize your gozleme to your liking. Turkish Gozleme with Spiced Lamb & Feta Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, choose high-quality ground lamb that is fresh. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without dark spots. For herbs, aim for fragrant, lively specimens; this greatly enhances the flavor of your Turkish Gozleme with Lamb. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! Leftover Turkish Gozleme with Lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain their texture, let them cool completely before sealing. If you’re thinking of longer storage, they freeze beautifully. Can I freeze Turkish Gozleme? Absolutely! To freeze your gozleme, place the cooked, cooled ones in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in a skillet until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. What should I do if my dough isn’t rolling out smoothly? A common issue! If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on the surface and your rolling pin. If it feels too dry and cracks, try adding a touch more water or olive oil to the mix. Remember, letting the dough rest for at least 30 minutes helps enhance its elasticity and makes it easier to handle. Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Definitely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the filling. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough. If there are allergies to dairy, consider substituting feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and you can enjoy a vegetarian option by using sautéed mushrooms or lentils instead of lamb. What if I want to customize the filling? The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Leftover cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, or even a mix of cheeses can work wonderfully. Just ensure to balance flavors so your Turkish Gozleme with Lamb remains delightful and satisfying! Irresistible Turkish Gozleme with Lamb for Cozy Nights A delightful blend of flaky pastry, spiced lamb, and fresh herbs in Turkish Gozleme with Lamb. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: LunchCuisine: TurkishCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients2 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon salt1 cup Greek yogurt1/2 cup water adjust based on humidity2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéingFilling Ingredients1 medium onion diced2 cloves garlic minced1 pound ground lamb2 tablespoons tomato paste1 teaspoon coriander (ground)1 teaspoon smoked paprika1 teaspoon cumin (ground)1 cup spinach (frozen, thawed, and chopped)1/4 cup fresh mint chopped1/4 cup green onions chopped1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)1 medium tomato chopped Equipment SkilletMixing bowlRolling Pin Method Dough PreparationIn a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt, creating a well in the center. Gradually mix in Greek yogurt and water until the dough starts forming. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for about 3 minutes until it becomes slightly elastic and smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.Filling PreparationHeat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant. Next, stir in the ground lamb and cook, breaking it apart, until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Mix in tomato paste, spices, and spinach, then continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool.AssemblyOnce the dough has rested, divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, around 1/8 inch thick. On one half of each rectangle, layer the cooled lamb filling, sprinkling fresh mint, green onions, parsley, crumbled feta, and chopped tomato on top. Fold the other half over the filling and press down firmly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes.Cooking the GozlemeIn the same skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place one gozleme in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. Flip it over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Repeat the process for the remaining gozleme, adding oil as needed to achieve that golden-brown crust.ServingOnce cooked, remove the gozleme from the skillet and let them sit for a minute before cutting. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 15mg NotesThis delightful Turkish Gozleme with Lamb is best enjoyed fresh, allowing everyone to share in the warmth and flavor of this comforting homemade dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
