Zaatar flatbread
Moroccan cuisine is a perfect conglomeration of flavors that are a treat for the taste buds. The use of spices and herbs is abundant in this cuisine, and it always promises a delightful experience. One such dish that embodies this cuisine’s essence is the Moroccan Zaatar flatbread recipe.
A flatbread is a type of bread that is popular and diverse in cuisine all around the world. It is an easy-to-make bread that comes in various shapes and sizes. One of the most popular flatbreads in Morocco is the Zaatar flatbread. This recipe is a harmonic combination of common ingredients that are readily available in local markets. Zaatar is a spice that is commonly used in the Middle East and North Africa, and it is the star of this recipe. It is a combination of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and marjoram, and roasted sesame seeds mixed with sumac, which gives it its tangy flavor.
Making Moroccan Zaatar flatbread is a simple process, and it can be done in a matter of minutes. The ingredient list for this recipe is short and easily available. The dough used for this bread is made of flour, yeast, olive oil, salt, sugar, and water. The dough needs to be kneaded well till it turns soft and smooth. Once the dough is made, it needs to be left to rise for some time, giving it enough time to aerate and develop more flavor.
After the dough has risen, it is then divided into smaller portions, shaped into flat discs or oblong shapes, and rolled out thinly. The Zaatar spice blend is then sprinkled generously over the bread, and it’s ready to be baked. A common way of baking this bread in Morocco is to bake it on a hot stone, which gives it a smoky and earthy taste.
Zaatar flatbread is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own. In Morocco, it is often served with a drizzle of olive oil and accompanied by a bowl of olives and a cup of mint tea. It can also be served with a variety of dips, like hummus or baba ganoush. The bread’s crunchy texture and the aromatic flavor of the spices used make it a standout dish that will delight your taste buds.
In conclusion, Moroccan Zaatar flatbread is a delightful dish that is easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. Its popularity is growing globally, and it is easy to see why. With its crispy crust and the zesty Zaatar spice blend, this flatbread is the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you are new to Moroccan cuisine or already an avid fan, this dish will be one to remember.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp dried zaatar spice
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- About 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and zaatar spice. Mix well.
- Add in the olive oil and mix in with a spoon or your hands, making sure the oil is well incorporated.
- Slowly add in the warm water, a little at a time, stirring or mixing with your hands, until a soft and slightly sticky dough is formed.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, the dough should have doubled in size. Punch it down and divide it into 6-8 pieces.
- Roll each piece into a thin circle or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Place the flatbreads onto the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they become lightly browned and crispy.
- Serve hot or warm as a side dish or snack, and enjoy the delicious Moroccan zaatar flavor!