Turkish Garlic Bread (Sarımsaklı Ekmek)

Sarımsaklı Ekmek, or Turkish Garlic Bread, is a soft and aromatic bread enriched with garlic, herbs, and a golden, lightly crisp crust. Unlike the crusty Western-style garlic breads, this Turkish version offers a fluffier, pull-apart texture—perfect as a side dish, for breakfast, or enjoyed on its own with tea or soup. This homemade recipe yields a beautiful bread that’s both rustic and comforting.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups warm milk (not hot; around 100–105°F / 38–40°C)
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2¼ tsp)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 5 cups all-purpose flour (approximate, may need slightly more or less)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 egg yolk (optional, for egg wash)

Instructions