Zaatar Khubz Bites
Introduction to Zaatar Khubz Bites
Zaatar Khubz Bites offer a delightful experience combining the rich, aromatic flavor of zaatar with the soft texture of khubz, a traditional Arabic bread. Zaatar, a popular Middle Eastern spice blend, typically consists of dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, and toasted sesame seeds, with a hint of tangy sumac and salt. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to the dish.
Khubz, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, is an ancient leavened flatbread that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its simplicity allows it to be a perfect base for various toppings, making it versatile and beloved in many cultures. Zaatar Khubz Bites are a modern twist on the classic manakish, where the bread is topped with zaatar before being baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 3 cups
- Warm water - 1 cup
- Sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Instant yeast - 1 tablespoon
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Zaatar - 1/2 cup
- Olive oil (for topping) - 1/4 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and instant yeast in the warm water. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously. Add the olive oil and knead the mixture into a soft, pliable dough. Continue kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Roll Out and Shape the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough to remove excess air. Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions, rolling them into smooth balls. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into small discs, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 3: Topping with Zaatar
In a small bowl, mix the zaatar with the olive oil to create a paste. Spread a thin layer of the zaatar mixture over the surface of each dough disc, ensuring the mixture is evenly distributed.
Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the topped dough discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the khubz bites in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and crispy.
For a perfectly crisp crust, consider using a pizza stone or baking steel, preheated in the oven. This will help distribute the heat evenly and mimic the traditional stone-baked method.
Enjoying Zaatar Khubz Bites
Zaatar Khubz Bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. They can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish to complement main courses. Consider pairing them with a side of fresh diced tomatoes and cucumbers, drizzled with a touch of olive oil.
To enhance the experience, serve alongside a bowl of labneh or hummus for dipping. The creamy texture of these dips contrasts delightfully with the crunchy bites.
Remember to set a cooking timer to ensure your Zaatar Khubz Bites are cooked to perfection without missing a moment of the flavor.