Air Fryer Turkish Bread (Pide)

This Air Fryer Turkish Bread is soft, fluffy, and beautifully golden with a signature crisscross pattern. Topped with sesame and nigella seeds, it’s perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or serving alongside soups and grilled meats.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp plain yogurt
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp nigella seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the yogurt, olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a 7–8-inch (18–20 cm) round or oval to fit your air fryer basket.
6. Place the dough on parchment paper and let it rise again for 20–30 minutes.
7. Preheat the air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for 3–5 minutes.
8. Mix the egg yolk, yogurt, and olive oil. Brush generously over the dough.
9. Using your fingertips or the back of a knife, gently press a crisscross pattern into the top of the dough.
10. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and nigella seeds.
11. Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 12–16 minutes, or until the bread is puffed and golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last few minutes.
12. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips

• The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, not dry.
• Use parchment paper for easy transfer into and out of the air fryer.
• Air fryer models vary, so begin checking for doneness after 12 minutes.
• Brush the hot bread with a little melted butter for an extra-soft crust.

Serving Suggestions

• Hummus
• Tzatziki
• Garlic butter
• Olive oil and balsamic vinegar
• Kebabs
• Soups and stews

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight bag for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12–16 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving