Barbari Bread
Barbari bread is a traditional Persian flatbread with a thick crust, sesame topping, and soft interior, perfect for pairing with dips, cheeses, or as a snack. It appeals to bread lovers and those seeking flavorful, crusty bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in very warm water; add vegetable oil.
- Add 1 cup of flour and salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add flour in small amounts, stirring until stiff dough forms.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Punch down the dough and knead until soft. Divide into four equal parts.
- Grease four baking sheets.
- Flatten each piece and shape into flat oblong loaves about 1/4-inch thick.
- Make three lengthwise ridges on each loaf with the side of your hand.
- Brush each loaf with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seed.
- Cover with a cloth and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. If you're out of sesame seeds, poppy seeds or flaxseeds make excellent substitutes. Ensure your water is not too hot when activating the yeast; about 110°F (43°C) is ideal. Kneading the dough well will help develop the gluten for a better texture, which is crucial for achieving that traditional Barbari crust.
Serving Suggestions
Barbari bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, ideally with a spread like Yogurt Cucumber Sauce or alongside dishes like Eggplant Puree(Baba Ghanouge). It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Provencal Vegetable Soup. Serve it with a selection of dips and fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer or as part of a larger meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Barbari bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, restoring its crusty texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbari Bread contains roughly 1268 calories, with 27g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2665mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to expired yeast or water that was too hot or too cold. Make sure to proof the yeast properly by dissolving it in warm water and letting it sit until foamy. If the dough still doesn’t rise, try placing it in a warmer spot or using a different batch of yeast.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Whole wheat flour can make the bread denser, so consider using a mix of both flours to achieve a lighter texture while still incorporating the health benefits of whole grains.
How can I ensure my Barbari bread has a crispy crust?
To achieve a crispy crust on your Barbari bread, bake it on a preheated baking stone or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam. This moisture helps develop a crusty exterior. Additionally, brushing the loaves with melted butter before baking adds flavor and enhances browning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).