Armenian Matnakash Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar 10g (2 tsp) sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 125g (1/2 cup) plain yogurt 125g (1/2 cup) plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water, yogurt, and vegetable oil.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   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.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Shape the dough into a round loaf, making decorative patterns on the surface using your fingertips.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the top of the loaf.
10. 10.
    Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
11. 11.
    Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yogurt — Use plain yogurt with no added flavors or sweeteners. Greek yogurt can also be used for a tangier flavor and a denser texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can brush the top of the bread with melted butter before baking.
• Experiment with different patterns on the surface of the bread to create your own unique design.
• Serve the Matnakash bread warm for the best taste and texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving advice

Matnakash bread is best served warm and can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of dishes. It pairs well with soups, stews, or can be used to make sandwiches.

Presentation advice

To showcase the beautiful patterns on the surface of the Matnakash bread, place it on a wooden cutting board or a decorative bread basket. Serve it whole or slice it into wedges for a visually appealing presentation.