Khobz - Traditional Arab Bread

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (7g) instant yeast 2 teaspoons (7g) instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 2 cups (470ml) warm water 2 cups (470ml) warm water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 0g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing well until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover 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 220°C (425°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
7. 7.
   Shape each portion into a round disc, about 1/2 inch thick.
8. 8.
   Place the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for 10 minutes.
9. 9.
   Bake the Khobz bread in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flour — Use all-purpose flour for the best results. Bread flour can also be used for a slightly chewier texture.
• Instant yeast — Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure proper rising of the dough.
• Warm water — The water should be warm to the touch, but not hot, as it can kill the yeast.
• Salt — Salt not only enhances the flavor of the bread but also helps to control the yeast's activity.

Tips & Tricks

• For a softer crust, brush the Khobz bread with olive oil before baking.
• To add a hint of flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the bread before baking.
• If you prefer a thinner bread, divide the dough into more portions and shape them accordingly.
• Store any leftover Khobz bread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
• To reheat the bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven for a few minutes.

Serving advice

Serve Khobz bread warm or at room temperature. It is perfect for tearing and dipping into hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki. It also makes a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats, stews, or salads.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Khobz bread, sprinkle some flour on top before baking to create a rustic, artisanal look. Serve the bread on a wooden board or in a bread basket lined with a clean kitchen towel for an authentic touch.