Ichlekli (Turkmen Crispy Golden Double-Crusted Meat, Tomato & Pepper Skillet Pie) – Authentic Turkmenistan Recipe

Baked until crackling golden on the outside while the diced meat, tomatoes, and onions create a rich broth inside.

Country of Origin
🇹🇲 Turkmenistan (Central Asia, Asia)
Dietary Profile
omnivore
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Signature Staples
Flaky unleavened dough layers, Finely diced beef/lamb (or mushrooms), Juicy tomatoes, Cracked black pepper, Cumin seeds

Ingredients for Ichlekli (Turkmen Crispy Golden Double-Crusted Meat, Tomato & Pepper Skillet Pie) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) flaky unleavened dough layers, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups finely diced beef/lamb (or mushrooms), washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup juicy tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with cracked black pepper
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Turkmenistan seasoning (cumin seeds, fresh cilantro, melted butter)
  • 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C) and lightly oil an ovenproof skillet or baking dish.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, cracked black pepper, and cumin seeds, fresh cilantro, melted butter for 3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Combine flaky unleavened dough layers and finely diced beef/lamb (or mushrooms) with the sautéed aromatics and layer evenly into the baking dish.
  4. Top with juicy tomatoes and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.
  5. Let rest 5 minutes before serving warm at the table.

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