Authentic Turkish Lahmacun Recipe: The Ultimate Guide

Ingredients

500 grams of minced lamb
2 medium onions, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
4 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
2 bell peppers, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 bunch of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
2 teaspoons of cumin
2 teaspoons of paprika
2 teaspoons of ground coriander
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of olive oil
500 grams of pizza dough
1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to the highest temperature, usually around 250°C (480°F), and place a baking tray in the oven to heat.
While the oven is heating, start by preparing the topping for the Lahmacun. In a large bowl, combine the minced lamb, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, tomato paste, and finely chopped parsley.
Add the cumin, paprika, ground coriander, black pepper, and salt to the mixture.
Drizzle in the olive oil and mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into thin, round shapes, about 30cm in diameter.
Spread a portion of the lamb mixture evenly over each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edge.
Transfer the Lahmacun onto the preheated baking tray in the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the topping is cooked.
Once cooked, remove the Lahmacun from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top to taste.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and combine the ingredients for the topping.
Baking Tray - A flat tray to place in the oven and bake the Lahmacun.
Rolling Pin - A cylindrical tool used to roll out the pizza dough into thin, round shapes.
Flour - Used for dusting the surface when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
Knife - For chopping the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure and add the required amounts of spices.
Oven - To preheat and bake the Lahmacun.
Lemon Wedges - Served with the Lahmacun for added flavor and freshness.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of meat such as minced beef or chicken instead of lamb.
For a vegetarian option, replace the minced meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor, such as adding chili flakes for some heat or using oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Try using a different type of crust, like whole wheat dough or gluten-free dough for those with dietary restrictions.
Add extra vegetables to the topping, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
For a lighter version, use lettuce leaves or tortillas as a wrap instead of the traditional dough.
Swap out the tomato paste for a different sauce, such as pesto or barbecue sauce, for a unique twist on the traditional Lahmacun.

Recipe overview

Lahmacun is a delicious and flavorful dish that originates from the Middle East. It is commonly referred to as Turkish pizza due to its pizza-like appearance, however, its flavors and ingredients are distinctly Middle Eastern. This recipe uses a thin, crispy base topped with a succulent minced lamb mixture, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. The final touch of a squeeze of lemon lends a fresh and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the meat. It's a perfect dish to enjoy as a snack or to serve as a festive party appetizer. Despite its intricate look, Lahmacun is quite straightforward to prepare. Follow these steps to experience this authentic taste of the Middle East right at home.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb?
Yes, you can substitute minced lamb with minced beef or a combination of both.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Absolutely! You can make the pizza dough from scratch using your favorite recipe or use store-bought pizza dough for convenience.
What can I serve Lahmacun with?
Lahmacun is traditionally served with a variety of toppings and condiments such as fresh herbs like parsley and mint, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Some people also enjoy adding a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce.
Can I freeze the cooked Lahmacun?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Lahmacun. Allow them to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each one and store them in an airtight container or freezer bags. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.
Can I make Lahmacun in advance?
While it is best to consume Lahmacun fresh, you can prepare the topping in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, spread the topping on rolled-out dough and bake it fresh.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking Tray - A flat metal tray used for baking the Lahmacun in the oven.
Large Bowl - A bowl large enough to mix all the ingredients together for the topping.
Rolling Pin - A cylindrical tool used for rolling out the pizza dough into thin, round shapes.
Knife - Used for finely chopping the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Measuring Spoons - Used to measure the spices accurately.

Origin stories

Lahmacun, often dubbed as the 'Turkish Pizza', has a rich history rooted in the Middle East. It's believed to have originated during the time of the kingdom of Urartu, located in the region of Lake Van, present-day Eastern Turkey. The name 'Lahmacun' is derived from Arabic, where 'Lahm' means meat, and 'Ajeen' means dough. Over the centuries, this delightful dish has traversed borders and cultures, bringing a taste of the Middle East to tables worldwide. It carries the aroma of crowded bazaars, the sizzle of meats over open fires, and the warmth of shared meals in its essence. While it may resemble a pizza, Lahmacun is a culinary entity of its own, boasting a thin, crispy crust topped with a flavorful mix of minced meat and vegetables. Today, it's a beloved street food in Turkey, often rolled around fresh veggies with a squeeze of lemon, enjoyed as a quick, delicious bite.

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.