Yemeni Kubaneh Bread

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing) 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the melted butter and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix 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.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
6. 6.
   Grease a baking dish and arrange the dough balls in a single layer.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Brush the risen dough balls with beaten egg.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the Kubaneh bread turns golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Active dry yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active by proofing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.
• Butter — Use unsalted butter for a better control of the bread's flavor. If using salted butter, adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the dough.
• Serve the Kubaneh bread warm with a side of honey, labneh, or tahini for a delightful combination of flavors.
• Leftover Kubaneh bread can be sliced and toasted for a delicious breakfast or snack the next day.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first half of the baking time.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sesame seeds or nigella seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Kubaneh bread as a centerpiece for a Yemeni-inspired breakfast or brunch. Accompany it with a variety of dips, spreads, and fresh vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the freshly baked Kubaneh bread on a rustic wooden platter, allowing its golden crust to be the star. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh herbs for an inviting presentation.