Parlenka Recipe

Lastest Updated July 1, 2024
Home ยป Recipes A-Z ยป Parlenka Recipe

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.

Bulgarian Flatbread
Flat Bread

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.

Parlenka Flatbread
Parlenka Bulgarian

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.

  • Grill pan: This versatile pan is perfect for cooking your Parlenka on the stovetop, giving it that authentic, slightly charred flavor.
  • Large bowl: You’ll use this to mix the ingredients for your flatbreads and prepare the dough, ensuring everything is well combined.
  • Rolling pin: This handy tool is essential for shaping your flatbreads, making it easy to achieve the desired thickness and evenness.
  • Knife: A must-have in any kitchen, the knife will help you divide the dough into equal parts and spread the butter on the warm Parlenka.
  • Garlic press: Crushing garlic cloves is a breeze with this useful gadget, making it easy to spread over the Parlenka for that extra burst of flavor.
Garlic Press

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

  • Flour (2.8 cups): All-purpose flour is the ideal choice for this recipe, providing the perfect foundation for your Parlenka.
  • Bulgarian yogurt (1.02 cups): To achieve an authentic taste and consistency, use Bulgarian yogurt, which boasts a unique fermentation process involving special bacteria. If unavailable, Greek yogurt or plain yogurt make suitable substitutes.
  • Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Just a teaspoon of baking soda helps make your Parlenka fluffier and lighter.
  • Salt and sugar: These essential seasonings add the perfect balance of flavor to your Parlenka.

For Spreading

  • Butter (1.06 oz): Unsalted cold butter is key for spreading on your freshly baked Parlenka, adding a rich and creamy touch.
  • Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic enhance the flavor profile of your Parlenka. If you aren’t big on garlic, simply leave it out or opt for crumbled white brine cheese or grated yellow cheese as tasty alternatives.
Bulgarian Yogurt

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.

Pour The Flour Into A Bowl

Mix the ingredients together using your hands, working from the center outwards until you achieve a smooth, sticky dough.

Mix The Ingredients Together

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.

Place The Dough
Roll Each Piece Into A Ball

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.

Using A Rolling Pin
Dust Each Parlenka

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.

Cook The Parlenka

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.

Add Toppings
Enjoy Your Parlenka

Serving Suggestions For Bulgarian Flatbread

Enjoy your freshly made Bulgarian Flatbread Parlenka in a variety of delicious ways with these irresistible serving suggestions.

Serving Suggestions For Bulgarian Flatbread
  • Traditional Pairings: Parlenka is often served at the table as a substitute for regular bread, and it goes great with steaks, meatballs, or barbecued sausages.
  • Cheesy Delight: Top your Parlenka with a mix of crumbled feta and grated yellow cheese, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, resulting in a scrumptious, cheesy treat.
  • Savory Sandwich: Transform your Parlenka into an enticing sandwich by adding layers of succulent grilled meats, fresh veggies, and a flavorful sauce or spread of your choice.
  • Dippable Delicacy: Tear your Parlenka into bite-sized pieces and use them to scoop up your favorite dips, such as hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush, for a satisfying and tasty snack.
  • Supa Topcheta with Parlenka: Dip your warm, buttery Parlenka into a comforting bowl of Supa Topcheta, a classic Bulgarian soup made with meatballs, vegetables, and rice. The rich flavors and hearty textures create perfect harmony.

How To Store Your Parlenka

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 Flat Bread Recipe

Parlenka (ะŸัŠั€ะปะตะฝะบะฐ) Recipe (Bulgarian Flatbread)

Parlenka, a traditional Bulgarian flatbread, offers a quick and delectable addition to family meals. Learn how to make this dish to replace regular bread and level up your meal.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate Save Recipe
Course: Non-course Dish
Cuisine: Bulgarian
Keyword: Parlenka
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Preference: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 209kcal

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.
    Pour The Flour Into A Bowl
  • Mix the ingredients together using your hands, working from the center outwards until you achieve a smooth, sticky dough.
    Mix The Ingredients Together
  • Place the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal-sized pieces using a knife.
    Place The Dough
  • Roll each piece into a ball and rest them for about 5 minutes.
    Roll Each Piece Into A Ball
  • Using a rolling pin, shape each dough ball into a round flatbread.
    Using A Rolling Pin
  • Dust each Parlenka generously with flour to prevent sticking, or place a piece of floured baking paper between them.
    Dust Each 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.
    Cook The Parlenka
  • 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.
    Add Toppings
  • Enjoy your Parlenka warm.
    Enjoy Your Parlenka

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 383mg | Potassium: 99mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 125IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 2mg
Mia Dimitrova

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 โ€œSt. Kliment Ohridskiโ€

  • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
  • Focus: Captured the soul of Bulgarian and European dishes, emphasizing the interrelation between visual appeal and culinary history.
    Completed a thesis titled โ€œBulgaria on a Plate: A Photographic Journey through our Gastronomic Legacy.โ€

European Culinary Arts Academy

  • Program: Certified Course in Food Styling
  • Focus: Gained expertise in presenting dishes from Bulgaria and beyond, understanding the intricacies of European culinary aesthetics.

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.

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating