Pişi (Fried Bread)

Pişi is a beloved staple of Turkish breakfasts, known for its fluffy texture and golden, crispy exterior. This fried bread, often served warm, is the perfect companion to a spread of cheese, olives, and fresh vegetables, making it an essential part of leisurely weekend breakfasts or family gatherings. The comforting taste and indulgent texture of pişi make it a crowd favorite, evoking a sense of warmth and tradition with every bite.

There are two popular types of pişi: kabartma tozlu pişi and mayalı pişi. Kabartma tozlu pişi is made with baking powder, resulting in a lighter and airier bread. On the other hand, mayalı pişi, made with yeast, is denser and more substantial, offering a satisfying chewiness that many prefer. Both variations have their own unique appeal, but mayalı pişi stands out for its rich, fluffy interior and slightly crisp crust, making it the perfect choice for those who love a more indulgent treat.

If you’re ready to try making mayalı pişi at home, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients

• 300g strong bread flour

• 1 teaspoon instant yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 125g warm water

• 125g cold whole milk

• Olive oil (for greasing)

• Sunflower oil (for deep frying)

Method

1. Place 300g of strong bread flour, 1 teaspoon of instant yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a stand mixer bowl.

2. Run the stand mixer on the lowest speed for 30 seconds to mix the dry ingredients.

3. In a separate cup, mix 125g of warm water with 125g of cold whole milk.

4. Slowly drizzle the water and milk mixture into the dry ingredients while the stand mixer is running.

5. Gradually increase the speed of the stand mixer to the highest setting and continue mixing for 5 minutes.

6. After 5 minutes, stop the stand mixer and remove the dough from the bowl. Shape the dough into a ball with your hands.

7. Drizzle some olive oil into the stand mixer bowl, then return the dough to the bowl. Cover and let it prove overnight in the fridge.

8. The next day, take the dough out of the fridge and cut it into 60-65g pieces.

9. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rest for 20 minutes.

10. While the dough balls are resting, heat sunflower oil in a deep fryer or a large pot until it is very hot.

11. After resting, make a hole in the center of each dough ball with your finger to form a ring.

12. Fry 3 dough rings at a time in the hot oil, cooking each side for approximately 2 minutes, or until golden brown.

13. Remove from the oil and let them drain on paper towels before serving.

Enjoy your homemade pişi warm with your favourite breakfast accompaniments!