Jerusalem Rounds
History and Background
Jerusalem Rounds, known as "Ka'ak Al-Quds," are a type of flavorful bread originating from the ancient city of Jerusalem. These iconic bread rounds are a beloved snack throughout the Levant region. Traditionally consumed with za'atar or soft cheese, Jerusalem Rounds hold great cultural significance and are often associated with Middle Eastern street food.
Ingredients
- Flour - 500g
- Instant Yeast - 10g
- Sugar - 15g
- Warm Water - 300ml
- Salt - 10g
- Olive Oil - 30ml
- Sesame Seeds - 100g
- Egg (for egg wash) - 1
Preparation
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm water with sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center, and pour the activated yeast mixture along with olive oil into the well. Mix the ingredients to form a dough.
Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on room temperature. Consider using a cooking timer to manage the time.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Shaping the Rounds
Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal portions (around 6-8 pieces), then roll each portion into a smooth ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a disc about 1 cm thick and approximately 12 cm across.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the shaped dough rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a damp cloth and allow to rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) while they rise.
Step 6: Adding the Sesame Coating
Lightly beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush each dough round with the egg wash, then generously sprinkle with sesame seeds, pressing them gently into the dough to adhere.
Step 7: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Use a cooking timer to avoid over-baking.
Serving Suggestions and Enjoying Jerusalem Rounds
Serve the fragrant, warm Jerusalem Rounds with a bowl of olive oil mixed with za'atar, or alongside crumbly feta cheese. Their delightful crust and soft, airy texture make them perfect for breakfast, or as a savory snack throughout the day. To truly appreciate their traditional essence, enjoy them with strong mint tea while reminiscing about the rich cultural heritage of Jerusalem.