Step into the captivating world of Bulgarian cuisine as I introduce you to a delectable Parlenka recipe! This versatile flatbread has long been a staple of Bulgaria’s culinary heritage, pairing beautifully with soups, main courses, or even as a standalone snack.
With minimal kneading, quick rising time, and a speedy stovetop cook, you’ll be enjoying this tasty bread in no time. Give Parlenka a try today, and you’ll soon understand why this delicious flatbread has captured the hearts and taste buds of so many.
Parlenka – The Beloved Flatbread From Bulgaria
Parlenka, Bulgaria’s answer to flatbread, is a cherished staple in the country’s culinary scene. This sumptuous bread is made with simple ingredients like flour and yogurt, which come together to create a soft, mouthwatering delight.
Bulgarian restaurants specializing in traditional cuisine often have their own unique takes on Parlenka, each version as scrumptious as the next. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it can also be enjoyed in various ways.
Spread warm Parlenka with a luscious mixture of butter and crushed garlic, or top it with crumbled white-bined cheese for an authentic taste of Bulgaria. For a gooey treat, bake it with yellow cheese until slightly browned and melted.
Toolkit You Need for Homemade Parlenka
Getting ready to make delicious Parlenka? Before you begin, ensure that you have all the essential tools listed below.
Simple Ingredients for Flavorful Parlenka
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need, along with their purpose in the recipe. With these ingredients at the ready, you’re all set to create a truly scrumptious Parlenka that’s sure to impress!
For the Dough
For Spreading
Parlenka Instructions: From Flour to Flatbread
Follow these easy steps to bring yummy Bulgarian-style flatbreads to life and enjoy it warm, soft, and full of flavor.
Step 1: Prepare The Dough
Pour the flour into a bowl, creating a small well in the center. Add the yogurt to the well, followed by the sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Mix the ingredients together using your hands, working from the center outwards until you achieve a smooth, sticky dough.
Note
You can also mix the dough using a stand mixer with a hook attachment or set your bread machine to the dough cycle for added convenience.
Step 2: Divide And Shape The Dough
Place the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal-sized pieces using a knife. Roll each piece into a ball and rest them for about 5 minutes.
Using a rolling pin, shape each dough ball into a round flatbread. Dust each Parlenka generously with flour to prevent sticking, or place a piece of floured baking paper between them.
Step 3: Cook The Parlenka
Heat a pan to a moderately high temperature and begin cooking the Parlenki. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the underside is browned. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining Parlenki.
Step 4: Add Toppings And Serve
While the Parlenka is still warm, brush it with melted butter and crushed garlic for extra flavor. If desired, sprinkle chili or sweet red pepper on top for added taste.
Enjoy your Parlenka immediately, as it’s best when warm and soft and tends to become tougher as they cool.
Serving Suggestions For Bulgarian Flatbread
Enjoy your freshly made Bulgarian Flatbread Parlenka in a variety of delicious ways with these irresistible serving suggestions.
How To Store Your Parlenka
Proper storage of your homemade Parlenka is crucial to maintain its freshness and taste. Firstly, allow the Parlenka to cool completely before storing, as this prevents condensation and sogginess.
Once cooled, wrap the flatbreads in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep them from drying out.
Store the wrapped or contained Parlenka at room temperature in a cool, dry place like a pantry or breadbox for up to 2-3 days.
It’s best to avoid refrigeration, as this can cause the bread to go stale faster. If you’d like to store the Parlenka longer, consider freezing it.
Individually wrap the flatbreads and place them in a resealable freezer bag labeled with the date and contents. Frozen Parlenka can last for up to 2-3 months.
To enjoy your stored Parlenka, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. If frozen, allow the bread to thaw at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
A Taste of Bulgarian Flatbread Bliss
With its easy preparation, quick cooking time, and myriad serving suggestions, Parlenka is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore and enjoy the flavors of Bulgaria. In addition, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering dishes to accompany your flatbread.
So why not give this Parlenka recipe a try? And when you do, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comment section. You can also share this post with your friends and family so they, too, can dive into the delightful world of Bulgarian cuisine.
Parlenka (ะััะปะตะฝะบะฐ) Recipe (Bulgarian Flatbread)
Equipment
- Grill pan
- Large bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Knife
- Garlic Press
Ingredients
- 2.8 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.02 cups of yogurt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1.06 oz butter
- 2 cloves of garlic
Instructions
- Pour the flour into a bowl, creating a small well in the center. Add the yogurt to the well, followed by the sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Mix the ingredients together using your hands, working from the center outwards until you achieve a smooth, sticky dough.
- Place the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal-sized pieces using a knife.
- Roll each piece into a ball and rest them for about 5 minutes.
- Using a rolling pin, shape each dough ball into a round flatbread.
- Dust each Parlenka generously with flour to prevent sticking, or place a piece of floured baking paper between them.
- Heat a pan to a moderately high temperature and begin cooking the Parlenki. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the underside is browned. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining Parlenki.
- While the Parlenka is still warm, brush it with melted butter and crushed garlic for extra flavor. If desired, sprinkle chili or sweet red pepper on top for added taste.
- Enjoy your Parlenka warm.
Notes
- The total time is for making 8 servings of Parlenka.
- If Bulgarian yogurt is unavailable, Greek yogurt or plain yogurt make suitable substitutes.
- Enjoy your Parlenka immediately, as it’s best when warm and soft and tends to become tougher as they cool.
Mia Dimitrova
Content Writer
Expertise
Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Food Styling, Food Photography, Culinary Storytelling, Cooking-video Maker, European Food Content Creator, Bulgarian Food Evaluation Expert
Education
Sofia University โSt. Kliment Ohridskiโ
Completed a thesis titled โBulgaria on a Plate: A Photographic Journey through our Gastronomic Legacy.โ
European Culinary Arts Academy
Maria Dimitrova, or Mia, is a Contributing Writer from Sofia, Bulgaria. Her work beautifully intertwines the rich flavors of Bulgarian and European dishes with their visual storytelling, capturing the soul of each cuisine. Through engaging content and stunning photography, Maria explores the intricate relationship between food’s aesthetic appeal and cultural history.
Specializing in home cooking, food styling, and photography, she brings European culinary traditions to life, offering a unique glimpse into Bulgaria’s gastronomic heritage. Maria’s expertise highlights her deep appreciation for culinary art and invites her audience to embark on a flavorful journey through Europe’s diverse food landscape.