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Khameer (Emirati Sweet Saffron Bread)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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6
Servings

Ingredients

  • Plain flour, plus extra for dusting — 500 g (4 cups)
  • Instant yeast — 7 g (2 tsp)
  • Sugar — 3 tbsp
  • Salt — 1 tsp
  • Ground cardamom — 1/4 tsp
  • Saffron threads, soaked in 3 tbsp warm water — 1/4 tsp
  • Warm milk — 300 ml (1.25 cups)
  • Butter, melted, plus extra for brushing — 3 tbsp

Method

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and cardamom.
  2. Add the saffron with its soaking liquid, warm milk, and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a small, slightly flattened round about 12 cm (5 inches) wide.
  5. Place on a lined baking tray, cover loosely, and let rise for a further 20–30 minutes until puffy.
  6. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
  7. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown on top.
  8. Brush the warm breads generously with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven. Serve warm.

Introduction: Khameer is a soft, lightly sweetened Emirati bread flavored with saffron and cardamom, traditionally baked in a clay oven (tandoor) and served warm at breakfast alongside cheese, honey, or eggs.

Cultural Background: Khameer is a soft, lightly sweetened Emirati bread flavored with saffron and cardamom, traditionally baked in a clay oven (tandoor) and served warm at breakfast alongside cheese, honey, or eggs. Its subtly spiced, fragrant dough reflects the broader Gulf tradition of aromatic breads, and it remains a comforting staple across Emirati households.

Tips: Brushing the bread with butter immediately after baking gives khameer its characteristic soft, glossy crust. Don't over-knead the dough; a soft, slightly tacky dough produces the best fluffy texture. Serve fresh and warm, ideally the same day, for the best flavor and softness.

Variations: Add a handful of raisins to the dough for extra sweetness. Serve split and filled with cheese or a fried egg for a heartier breakfast. Vegan version: substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a plant-based milk.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes, or wrap in a damp cloth and microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften.

FAQs:

Q: What makes khameer different from regular bread?

A: Its distinctive saffron and cardamom flavoring, along with a touch of sweetness, sets khameer apart from more neutral, everyday breads.

Q: What is khameer traditionally served with?

A: It's commonly enjoyed at breakfast with cheese, honey, or alongside eggs, and pairs well with karak chai.

Q: Can I bake khameer in a tandoor?

A: Yes, if a tandoor is available, it produces an even more authentic smoky flavor and characteristic charred spots, though a conventional oven works well too.

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