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Breads

Sesame Flatbread (Khubz bi Simsim)

sjfegan

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8
Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cups flour (500 g / 1 lb 2 oz)
  • 360ml (1.5 cups) Warm water
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 70g (1/2 cup) Sesame seeds, for topping

Method

  1. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and oil.
  3. Mix and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
  5. Divide into portions and roll each into a flat round.
  6. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
  7. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.

Introduction: A soft flatbread topped generously with sesame seeds, the essential everyday bread found across Abbasid Baghdad’s markets and households.

Cultural Background: Bread held fundamental importance across the Abbasid Caliphate, and simple sesame-topped flatbreads like this one were baked daily in household ovens and communal bakeries throughout Baghdad and beyond.

Tips: Press the sesame seeds firmly into the dough so they adhere well during baking. A hot oven helps the bread bake quickly, developing a good texture.

Variations: Sprinkle with a mix of sesame and nigella seeds for extra flavour. Serve alongside any Abbasid main dish or dip.

Storage: Store at room temperature wrapped in a cloth for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Warm briefly on a dry griddle or in an oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx., 1 piece): 220 kcal, 6 g protein, 5 g fat, 38 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: Was bread a daily staple in Abbasid Baghdad?

A: Yes, bread was fundamental to the diet across all social classes, baked in household ovens and purchased from numerous communal bakeries throughout the city.

Q: Why are sesame seeds used as a topping?

A: Sesame was a widely available and valued ingredient across the caliphate, its nutty flavour and texture making it a popular bread topping.

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