Levantine Flatbread

Ingredients

While the original Icelandic Flatkaka is typically made with rye flour, this Levantine adaptation uses a combination of all-purpose flour and semolina for a lighter and softer texture. Additionally, the traditional Icelandic flatbread is plain, whereas this Levantine version incorporates za'atar, a popular Middle Eastern spice blend, to infuse the bread with a unique and aromatic flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Flatkaka, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (150g) semolina 1 cup (150g) semolina
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon za'atar 1 tablespoon za'atar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• Extra olive oil, for brushing Extra olive oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, and za'atar.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the olive oil and warm water.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for 1 hour.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a round flatbread.
8. 8.
   Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with olive oil.
9. 9.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the flatbreads are golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Semolina — Semolina adds a unique texture to the flatbread. If you don't have semolina, you can replace it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour.
• Za'atar — Za'atar is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing the distinct Levantine flavor. You can find za'atar at Middle Eastern grocery stores or make your own blend using dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced za'atar flavor, sprinkle additional za'atar on top of the flatbreads before baking.
• Serve the flatbread warm for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different toppings such as labneh, olives, or roasted vegetables to create a delicious Levantine-inspired meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Levantine Flatbread as a side dish with your favorite Middle Eastern dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki. It can also be enjoyed as a wrap or used as a base for open-faced sandwiches.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some extra za'atar and drizzle olive oil over the flatbread before serving. Serve it on a wooden board or a colorful plate to showcase the vibrant Levantine flavors.