Authentic Qatlama: A Traditional Uzbek Flatbread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups of warm water
  • 1 cup of plain yogurt
  • 2 cups of crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh dill
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mint
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  2. Add warm water to the dry mixture, and stir until it forms a dough.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. In the meantime, mix together the yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, dill, and mint in another bowl.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
  8. Roll out each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
  9. Place a spoonful of the feta mixture in the center of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges.
  10. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the ends together to form a circle.
  11. Place the filled dough circles on the prepared baking sheet.
  12. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with the black pepper and brush this egg wash over the dough circles.
  13. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of each filled dough circle.
  14. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
  15. Let the qatlama cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Replace the feta cheese with another type of cheese such as goat cheese or mozzarella.
  • Add diced cooked chicken or beef to the filling for a meaty variation.
  • Include additional vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions in the filling.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like oregano, basil, or paprika to enhance the flavor.
  • Make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • For a vegan alternative, substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use dairy-free cheese or tofu instead of feta cheese.
  • Add a touch of heat by including chopped jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
  • Create a sweet version by replacing the savory filling with ingredients like Nutella, fruit preserves, or chocolate chips.
  • Try baking the qatlama on a pizza stone for a crispier crust.

Recipe overview

This delicious Qatlama recipe brings together the rich flavors of feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a crisp, golden crust for a savory treat that's sure to impress. Qatlama, a traditional dish from Central Asia, is similar to a filled flatbread or pastry, and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal. This recipe calls for a simple yeast dough that's filled with a mixture of feta cheese, yogurt, and fresh herbs, then baked until golden and crisp. The tangy feta and cooling herbs present a delightful contrast to the warm, fluffy bread, making each bite a pleasure. Though this is a bread recipe, you don't have to be a master baker to succeed. The dough comes together easily and the filling is simply mixed, no cooking required. You'll also have the chance to practice folding and sealing the edges of the dough, a technique that can be useful in all sorts of baking. So, if you're ready for a new culinary adventure, roll up your sleeves and let's get started on this Qatlama recipe – your taste buds will thank you!

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that it might make the dough slightly denser and alter the texture of the qatlama.
  2. How can I make the qatlama vegetarian?
    To make the qatlama vegetarian, you can omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative, such as a crumbled tofu or a vegan cheese substitute.
  3. Can I make the dough in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, place the dough in an airtight container, refrigerate, and let it rise overnight. When you're ready to make the qatlama, proceed with the recipe as directed.
  4. Can I freeze the qatlama?
    Yes, you can freeze the qatlama. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  5. What can I serve with qatlama?
    Qatlama can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer, or as part of a meal. It pairs well with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or a side salad.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the dough and other ingredients.
  • Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the qatlama in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Used to line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into circles.
  • Pastry Brush - Used to brush the egg wash over the dough circles.
  • Greased Bowl - A bowl coated with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking when rising the dough.
  • Clean Cloth - Placed over the dough while it rises to keep it moist and prevent drying out.

Origin stories

Qatlama is a popular savory pastry from the heart of Central Asia, particularly loved in the vibrant country of Uzbekistan. This delightful dish has a deep-rooted history in the nomadic cultures of the region, where ease of preparation and portability were prized qualities for food. As the nomads traveled, they carried with them simple, hardy ingredients like flour, cheese, and herbs, which could be quickly transformed into a filling meal over a swiftly lit fire. Thus, Qatlama emerged as a delicious solution, a testament to the resourcefulness of these ancient people. The blend of feta, spinach, and herbs tucked within a golden dough circle is a bite into centuries of nomadic tradition, evoking the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Central Asia with each delicious morsel.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.