Kaak Malih - Lebanese Sesame Bread Rings

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground anise 1 teaspoon ground anise
• 1 teaspoon ground mahlab 1 teaspoon ground mahlab
• 120ml (1/2 cup) olive oil 120ml (1/2 cup) olive oil
• 240ml (1 cup) warm water 240ml (1 cup) warm water
• 200g (1 cup) sesame seeds 200g (1 cup) sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 1.5g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, ground anise, and ground mahlab.
2. 2.
   Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ring.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Spread the sesame seeds on a plate. Dip each ring into the sesame seeds, ensuring they are fully coated.
7. 7.
   Place the sesame-coated rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the Kaak Malih turns golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their flavor and aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced anise flavor, you can increase the amount of ground anise in the dough.
• Make sure to coat the rings generously with sesame seeds to achieve a beautiful and flavorful crust.
• Serve Kaak Malih warm for the best taste and texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
• Kaak Malih pairs wonderfully with a cup of traditional Lebanese tea or coffee.

Serving advice

Serve Kaak Malih as a delightful snack on its own or alongside a mezze platter. It can also be enjoyed with labneh, hummus, or other Middle Eastern dips.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Kaak Malih rings on a serving platter, allowing their golden-brown crust and sesame seed coating to be prominently displayed. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for an added touch of color.