Gozleme with Spinach and Feta
TurkishBrunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Gozleme is a traditional Anatolian flatbread that has been enjoyed for centuries across Turkey. This hand-rolled dough is filled with a delicious mixture of fresh spinach and crumbly feta cheese, then cooked on a hot griddle until crispy and golden. The name comes from the Turkish word "göz" meaning compartment, referring to the pockets created when the dough is folded. Perfect for brunch gatherings, this versatile dish can be served warm with a dollop of yogurt and fresh tomatoes. The dough is made with simple pantry ingredients and requires minimal resting time, while the filling combines earthy spinach with salty feta for a perfectly balanced flavor. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior. This recipe serves six people and is ideal for sharing at casual meals or as a substantial breakfast option.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups flour with 1 teaspoon salt. Make a well in the center and add 1 cup warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

  2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 20 minutes.

  3. While dough rests, prepare the filling. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

  4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach and chop finely.

  5. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.

  6. Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.

  7. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a thin oval or rectangle, approximately 10x8 inches.

  8. Spread the spinach-feta filling over half of each dough sheet, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges firmly to seal.

  9. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with olive oil.

  10. Cook each gozleme for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown spots appear and the dough is cooked through. Brush with additional olive oil or butter while cooking for extra crispiness.

  11. Remove from heat and cut into strips or wedges. Serve immediately with yogurt and fresh tomatoes.

Gozleme with Spinach and Feta

5.0 (19)

Traditional flatbread filled with savory spinach and tangy feta cheese, cooked to golden perfection on a griddle. A beloved street food and homestyle breakfast across Anatolia.

medium
55 min
6 servings

Ingredients

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Dough

  • 3 cups flour, all-purpose
  • 1 teaspoons salt
  • 4 tablespoons olive-oil

Filling

  • 4 cups spinach, fresh, packed
  • 1 1/2 cups cheese-feta, crumbled
  • 1 pieces onions, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground

Finishing

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)

Serving

  • 1 cups greek-yogurt (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For best results, roll the dough as thin as possible without tearing - thinner dough creates a crispier gozleme.
You can substitute the spinach with other greens like chard or kale.
For a richer flavor, add some crumbled white cheese or ricotta along with the feta.
If the dough springs back while rolling, let it rest for 5 more minutes.
Gozleme can be customized with various fillings - try ground lamb with spices, potato and cheese, or even a sweet version with cinnamon and sugar.
The key to authentic gozleme is cooking it on a very hot surface to achieve those characteristic charred spots.
If making ahead, prepare the dough and filling separately and assemble just before cooking.
You can also freeze uncooked gozleme between layers of parchment paper for up to 2 months.
Gozleme with Spinach and Feta | Cuisinao