Ishlekli

Ishlekli

Işlekli (ish-LEK-lee)

Turkmen Meat Pie

Prep Time 1.5 hours
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 446 kcal

A large round layered pie of thin dough filled with seasoned lamb and onion, baked until golden and served in generous wedges.

Nutrition & Info

450 kcal per serving
Protein 24.0g
Carbs 38.0g
Fat 22.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

rolling pin large round baking tray mixing bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: round wooden board

Garnishes: fresh herbs

Accompaniments: yogurt, green tea

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix flour, salt, and warm water to form a smooth elastic dough then divide into two portions with one slightly larger than the other.

  2. 2

    Combine ground lamb with finely diced onions, cumin, black pepper, and salt mixing thoroughly until evenly seasoned throughout.

  3. 3

    Roll the larger dough portion into a thin round sheet and lay it on an oiled baking tray letting edges drape over the sides.

  4. 4

    Spread the seasoned lamb and onion filling evenly across the dough in a thick layer leaving a small border at the edges.

  5. 5

    Roll the smaller dough portion into a round sheet and place it over the filling then crimp the edges together to seal completely.

  6. 6

    Brush with egg yolk and bake at two hundred degrees Celsius for forty minutes until the pie is deep golden brown and crispy.

💡

Did You Know?

Ishlekli is traditionally baked directly on hot sand or ashes in the desert, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • rolling pin
  • large round baking tray
  • mixing bowl

Garnishing

fresh herbs

Accompaniments

yogurt, green tea

The Story Behind Ishlekli

Ishlekli represents the Turkmen tradition of large savory pies baked for family meals and gatherings. This filled pastry reflects the influence of Central Asian baking traditions where nomadic peoples developed portable hearty foods that could feed families with minimal equipment. The pie remains a staple of Turkmen home cooking.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or dinner 📜 Origins: Traditional Turkmen

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