Qatari-Style Kaak Malih

Ingredients

In this Qatari adaptation of Kaak Malih, saffron is added to the dough to infuse it with a distinct flavor and vibrant color. Additionally, the spices used in Qatari cuisine are incorporated to give the bread rings a unique taste that reflects the Qatari culinary tradition. We alse have the original recipe for Kaak malih, 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 saffron threads 1 tsp saffron threads
• 1 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water
• Sesame seeds, for sprinkling Sesame seeds, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt.
3. 3.
   Add the saffron water, vegetable oil, and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, then divide it into small portions.
8. 8.
   Roll each portion into a rope shape, about 20cm (8 inches) long, and join the ends to form a ring.
9. 9.
   Place the rings on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
10. 10.
    Sprinkle the tops of the rings with sesame seeds.
11. 11.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Kaak Malih turn golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, crush the threads slightly before soaking them in water. This will release more of the saffron's essence.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter version, you can add a tablespoon of honey to the dough.
• Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile of the Kaak Malih.
• Serve the Kaak Malih warm for the best taste and texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• These bread rings can be enjoyed on their own or paired with Qatari dips and spreads.

Serving advice

Serve the Qatari-Style Kaak Malih as a delightful breakfast treat or as a snack alongside a cup of Qatari tea. They can also be served as part of a traditional Qatari meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Kaak Malih rings on a platter, sprinkled with sesame seeds, to showcase their beautiful color and texture. Serve them alongside traditional Qatari tea glasses for an authentic presentation.