1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough:
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a large oval or rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Transfer to baking sheets lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled.
- Cover the shaped loaves with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until puffed up.
3. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during the second rise.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon water to make an egg wash.
- Gently brush the surface of each loaf with the egg wash. This will give the bread a beautiful golden color upon baking.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds over the top of the loaves for a traditional Turkish bread appearance and flavor.
5. Bake:
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Transfer the baked bread to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Turkish bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with dips such as hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki. It can also be used to make sandwiches or simply enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt.
Enjoy the process of making this delicious Turkish bread and the wonderful aroma that will fill your kitchen. This bread is a beautiful introduction to Turkish baking and a versatile addition to any meal.