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Salads

Fattoush Ardaniyah

(0)
20 min
Prep
8 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces stale flatbread, torn and toasted
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 4 radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1 green pepper, chopped
  • 4 spring onions, sliced
  • 1 bunch parsley, chopped
  • 1 bunch mint, chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
  • 1 tsp ground sumac, plus extra to garnish
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Method

  1. Toast the torn flatbread in a dry pan or oven until crisp and golden, about 8 minutes.
  2. Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, green pepper, spring onions, parsley and mint in a large bowl.
  3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, sumac and salt in a small bowl.
  4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well.
  5. Add the toasted bread just before serving and toss briefly so it stays crisp.
  6. Sprinkle with extra sumac and serve immediately.

Introduction: Fattoush was born from the practical habit of repurposing stale flatbread, frying or toasting it into crisp shards tossed through a bright, sumac-dressed vegetable salad.

Cultural Background: Fattoush was born from the practical habit of repurposing stale flatbread, frying or toasting it into crisp shards tossed through a bright, sumac-dressed vegetable salad. In Jordan it is a fixture of the mezze table year-round, especially in summer when tomatoes and cucumbers are at their peak.

Tips: Add the bread at the very last moment – if it sits in the dressing too long it turns soggy and loses its crunch.

Variations: Purslane (bakleh) is added when in season for extra tang. Some versions include pomegranate seeds for a sweet-tart contrast.

Storage: Best eaten fresh; store dressed vegetables and toasted bread separately if preparing ahead, refrigerated for up to 1 day.

Reheating: Not applicable – served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs:

Q: What can replace pomegranate molasses?

A: A mix of lemon juice and a little sugar or honey approximates the tang.

Q: Can I use pita chips instead of toasting my own?

A: Yes, though homemade toasted bread has a better texture.