Beef and spinach gozleme is a savory Turkish flatbread that combines spiced ground beef, fresh spinach, and a variety of aromatic herbs, all wrapped in a golden, crispy dough. A traditional street food in Turkey, gozleme is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty filling and satisfying crunch.
The filling of beef and spinach gozleme starts with lean ground beef that is cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of warm spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. The beef becomes tender and full of flavor, while the spinach is added for a burst of freshness and a slight earthiness. The combination of savory beef and the slightly bitter spinach creates a perfect balance that’s complemented by the spices.
The dough for gozleme is simple yet essential to achieving its signature crispy texture. Made with just flour, water, and a pinch of salt, the dough is rolled thinly and filled with the beef and spinach mixture before being sealed and cooked on a hot griddle or skillet. As the gozleme cooks, the dough crisps up beautifully, creating a golden-brown crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender, flavorful filling inside.
Beef and spinach gozleme can be enjoyed on its own, or paired with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh salad for a more complete meal. Its versatility allows it to be served as a snack at gatherings, a light lunch, or a hearty dinner when paired with sides like rice or roasted vegetables.
This dish is not only delicious but also a fun and interactive way to enjoy Turkish cuisine. Whether made fresh at home or served at a street food market, beef and spinach gozleme offers a warm, satisfying bite that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Turkey.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 200 grams ground beef lean
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ground
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- For the filling, heat a pan over medium heat and cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned. Add spinach, cumin, and black pepper, and cook until the spinach is wilted.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle on a floured surface.
- Place a portion of the filling on half of each dough circle, then fold over to enclose the filling. Press the edges to seal.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook each gozleme for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
This recipe is super easy and fun to make! My kids loved helping out. Definitely a keeper!