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Breads

Date-Filled Bread (Khubz al-Tamr)

sjfegan

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8
Servings

Ingredients

  • 375g (3 cups) Flour
  • 1.5 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 240ml (1 cup) Warm milk
  • 60g (1/4 cup) Butter, softened
  • 225g (1.5 cups) Pitted dates, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) Water

Method

  1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm milk and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine the flour in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture and softened butter, kneading for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
  4. Meanwhile, simmer the chopped dates with the water and cinnamon for 8–10 minutes until softened into a thick paste; let cool.
  5. Divide the dough into portions, flatten each, and place a spoonful of date paste in the centre, folding to enclose.
  6. Place on a baking tray, seam-side down, and let rise for a further 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.

Introduction: Soft bread rolls filled with a sweet date paste, a treasured treat reflecting Abbasid cuisine’s love of combining bread with dates.

Cultural Background: Date-filled breads and pastries appear throughout Abbasid culinary tradition, reflecting the deep cultural importance of dates across the Islamic world, this soft, subtly sweet bread a beloved treat for breakfast or as an accompaniment to tea.

Tips: Let the date paste cool before filling the dough, as this makes it easier to work with. Seal the dough well around the filling to prevent it from leaking during baking.

Variations: Add a few chopped walnuts to the date filling for extra texture. Brush with a little milk before baking for a softer, glossier crust.

Storage: Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat briefly in an oven at 160°C (325°F) for 5–8 minutes to refresh.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx., 1 roll): 260 kcal, 6 g protein, 6 g fat, 46 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: Why is date-filled bread significant in Abbasid cuisine?

A: Dates held deep cultural and religious importance throughout the Islamic world, and combining them with bread reflects a beloved, enduring culinary pairing across the region.

Q: What is this bread typically served with?

A: Tea or coffee, as a sweet breakfast or teatime treat.

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