sözleme

Sözleme is a traditional Turkish savory flatbread made from thinly rolled dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients, folded or topped, and then cooked on a convex griddle called a sac. It is a staple of Turkish home cooking as well as street food, widely enjoyed across the country.

The dough is typically made from flour, water, and salt and is rolled out very thin. Some preparations include a small amount of yogurt or oil. The fillings are diverse and commonly include cheese (such as feta or çökelek), spinach with herbs, potatoes, or minced meat with onions and peppers. Other popular fillings can feature mushrooms, eggplant, or fresh herbs.

To cook, the filled dough is sealed and flattened, then placed on the hot sac or a skillet and cooked until the bread is crisp and lightly browned on both sides. After cooking, it may be brushed with butter or oil. Sözleme is usually served hot, cut into triangular or rectangular portions, and often accompanied by yogurt, a dollop of melted butter, chili flakes, or sumac.

Etymology and regional variations exist, but the dish is broadly recognized as a versatile, quick meal within Turkish cuisine. Its fillings and thickness can vary by region and season, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients. In practice, sözleme is enjoyed as breakfast, a light lunch, or a snack and remains a popular example of simple, hearty Turkish fare.