Lahmacun has been around for millennia in the Middle East, and Turks, especially the Tatars, were known to prepare thin bread with a combination of meat and veggies for their meals.
The exact manner of baking in this dish can be traced back to the 17th century when Evliya Çelebi visited Damascus and recorded it in his famous travelogue “Seyahatname.” He wrote that he ate a “lahm-ı acînlı börek,” which came to be called the lahmacun we know and love today. Çelebi first gave it the name börek in reference to the thin layer of dough.
This thin, crispy flatbread was traditionally made by local bakers and served as a quick and satisfying street food snack. Over time, Lahmacun gained popularity not only in Turkey but also in neighboring countries, each adding its own unique twist to the recipe.
With a thin dough and a layer of meaty goodness, this Turkish pizza is a different take on the one you may be used to.
The Art of Preparation
Making Lahmacun is art. The dough is rolled out into thin circles, ensuring that it’s evenly stretched to create a delicate, crispy texture once baked. The finely minced beef meat and the blend of aromatic spices are spread generously over the dough, and the Lahmacun is then baked in a hot oven until the edges turn golden brown and the meat topping is perfectly cooked.
Serving Lahmacun
The secret to a great Lahmacun lies in the balance of flavors. We serve the Lahmacun fresh out of the oven, accompanied by a garnish of fresh lemon wedges and a handful of crisp, refreshing vegetables like lettuce, parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion. They add a refreshing contrast to the savory meat mixture.
We encourage our guests to squeeze the lemon juice over the Lahmacun before rolling it up like a wrap or folding it in half for easy consumption.
The aroma of the freshly baked flatbread, the visual appeal of the colorful toppings, and the explosion of flavors in your mouth make every bite a memorable one.
Our suggestion – Lahmacun pairs perfectly with Ayran or Salgam juice.
While we’ve shared the magic of Lahmacun with you here, nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. We invite you to book your visit and savor this culinary delight.
We can’t wait to share this delectable dish with you and offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere that truly embodies the spirit of Turkish hospitality.