No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of making authentic Turkish bread right at home but without the hassle of turning on an oven, you’re in for a treat. This No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) is a wonderfully soft, fluffy flatbread that cooks beautifully on the stovetop. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet incredibly flavorful, perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings or simply dipping into stews and sauces. The delightful puffed texture and slightly charred spots will have you wondering why you haven’t tried this before!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a critical role: flour provides structure and chewiness, warm milk and water keep the dough tender and help activate the yeast, and finally, the yeast itself brings that beautiful rise and texture you crave in fresh bread.

• Bread flour or all-purpose flour: Using bread flour gives a chewier texture due to its higher protein content, but all-purpose flour works beautifully too.
• Warm milk: Adds richness and softness to the bread while boosting yeast activation.
• Warm water: Keeps the dough hydrated and creates steam pockets during cooking for that perfect fluffiness.
• Instant dry yeast: The powerhouse ingredient that helps the bread rise and develop its light texture.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and contributes a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth to keep the dough balanced.
• Melted unsalted butter or olive oil (optional): Brushed on after cooking, it adds a lovely sheen and richness to the bread.
• Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens each bite.

How to Make No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by mixing warm milk, warm water, sugar, and instant dry yeast in a bowl. The warmth wakes up the yeast and the sugar feeds it, so be patient while you let this mixture bubble and come alive. You’ll notice it becomes frothy within about 5 to 10 minutes—that’s the signal you’re ready to move on.

Step 2: Combine and Knead the Dough

Add your flour and salt to the yeast mixture and start mixing. Once everything comes together, turn the dough onto a clean surface and knead it by hand until it’s smooth and no longer sticky. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes and is where you build the bread’s structure, so enjoy the tactile experience!

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap. Leave it in a warm spot for about one hour or until it doubles in size. This proofing step is crucial because it allows the dough to develop flavor and become airy.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

After the dough has risen, divide it into six equal portions and shape each into a smooth round ball. Cover them again to keep them from drying out. Next, using a rolling pin, gently press each ball into a flat circle about 18cm in diameter and roughly 5mm thick. Keep them even to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Bread on the Stovetop

Heat a thick-bottomed pan or skillet over medium heat—thick pans retain heat better and help your bread puff up beautifully. Place one dough round in the pan and cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip it over. When the bread has puffed up like a balloon and developed golden brown spots, turn the heat down to low and cover the pan with a cloth to lock in moisture and finish cooking gently. Repeat for all pieces.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once off the heat, brush your warm No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) with melted butter or olive oil for that irresistible shine and soft texture. For a fresh twist, sprinkle chopped parsley right on top. Now it’s ready to dive into!

How to Serve No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama)

Garnishes

This bread is a blank canvas when it comes to garnishes. A simple brush of butter creates a rich, golden crust. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can add an aromatic brightness. For something different, sprinkle a pinch of za’atar or sumac to evoke Middle Eastern flavors.

Side Dishes

No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s fantastic with grilled meats like chicken shawarma or lamb kebabs, perfect for scooping up silky hummus or tangy tzatziki. It also makes a superb companion to hearty curries and stews because it soaks up sauces like a dream.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using this bread as a wrap for Mediterranean or Indian-inspired fillings – imagine a chicken satay wrap or a veggie kebab roll. Slice it into wedges for a party platter alongside dips and spreads. You could even transform it into mini pizzas by topping with fresh tomatoes, cheese, and herbs then warming briefly in a pan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The bread stays soft when wrapped well, but be sure to keep it away from moisture to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

To enjoy this bread any time, freezing is your best friend. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in a pan to revive softness and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or leftover Bazlama on a hot skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the bread rubbery. A quick pan reheat brings back that freshly-made charm every time.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will give your bread a nuttier flavor and denser texture. You might want to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat absorbs more moisture, and knead a bit longer for elasticity.

Do I have to use both milk and water?

Using both milk and water creates the perfect balance of richness and hydration, but you can substitute all milk or all water if needed. Just keep in mind that milk adds softness and a delicate flavor that plain water won’t provide.

Why does the bread puff up like a balloon while cooking?

That’s the magic of steam trapped inside the dough! The heat causes water inside to turn to steam, inflating the bread from within and creating an airy, fluffy texture. Using a thick pan helps retain heat evenly to encourage this puff.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Unfortunately, gluten gives Bazlama its structure and chew. Gluten-free flours won’t yield the same puff or elasticity. However, experimenting with gluten-free bread mixes and xanthan gum might get you close.

Is yeast necessary for this recipe?

Yes, yeast is key to achieving the bread’s characteristic rise and softness. Without it, your bread will be dense and flat. Instant dry yeast is recommended for convenience and reliable results.

Final Thoughts

Making No-Oven Turkish Bread With Only 3 Ingredients (Bazlama) at home is such a rewarding experience. It’s surprisingly quick, wonderfully delicious, and so versatile you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Whether you’re new to bread baking or a seasoned cook, this recipe brings a little taste of Turkey right to your kitchen stove. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to breads!