History about the recipe
What is Lahmacun?
Lahmacun (from Arabic lahm bi’ajeen, meaning “meat with dough”) is a thin flatbread topped with spiced minced meat, vegetables, and herbs. It’s sometimes called “Turkish pizza”, though it’s lighter and has no cheese. Wikipedia
Historical origins
- The tradition of topping flatbread with meat goes back to ancient Mesopotamia and Anatolia.
- The modern form of Lahmacun became especially popular in southeastern Turkey, in cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa.
- Lahmacun only reached wider popularity in Istanbul after the 1950s, following migration from rural and southeastern regions.
Regional variations and food culture
- Gaziantep Lahmacun is famous for its garlic, chili, and balanced seasoning.
- Other regions may add more onion or local spices depending on the season.
- Lahmacun is usually enjoyed as street food, rolled up with parsley, onions, and a squeeze of lemon. Vidar Bergum
Lahmacun today
Today, Lahmacun is eaten across Turkey, Armenia, Syria, Lebanon, and in Turkish communities worldwide. Many people search for a Lahmacun recipe when they want to make these delicious Turkish mini pizzas at home.