Omani-style Pogača

Ingredients

In this Omani adaptation of Crnogorska pogača, we incorporate Omani spices like cardamom and turmeric to infuse the bread with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we top the bread with sesame seeds for added texture and a touch of Omani influence. We alse have the original recipe for Crnogorska pogača, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp sugar
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds, for topping Sesame seeds, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, ground cardamom, ground turmeric, salt, and sugar.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal-sized portions. Shape each portion into a round or oval-shaped bread.
7. 7.
   Place the shaped bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds generously.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Olive oil — Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before using them as a topping for enhanced aroma and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Serve the Omani-style Pogača warm with a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Experiment with different toppings such as nigella seeds or dried herbs for added flavor variations.
• This bread is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is baked, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• To reheat the bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Omani-style Pogača as a side dish with traditional Omani stews or curries. It also pairs well with hummus, labneh, or a variety of Middle Eastern dips. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Presentation advice

Present the Omani-style Pogača on a wooden platter or a traditional Omani plate. Sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top for an appealing visual touch. You can also serve it in a bread basket lined with a clean cloth for a rustic presentation.