Za’atar Bread

When I think of comfort food, Za’atar Bread instantly comes to mind. Growing up, my kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of baking bread, a scent that always made me feel at home. This bread is not just any regular loaf; it carries with it a rich heritage of flavors from the Middle East. I remember the first time I tasted Za’atar Bread at a friend’s family gathering. It was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a deliciously fragrant mix of spices that danced on my palate. From that day, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

What I love about Za’atar Bread is its versatility. Whether served warm alongside a vibrant salad, used as a wrap for your favorite fillings, or just enjoyed straight out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, it never fails to impress. The combination of the earthy za’atar spice mix, coupled with the richness of olive oil, creates an unforgettable taste experience. It’s one of those recipes that brings joy to your table and warmth to your heart.

As I began to bake and experiment with this recipe in my own kitchen, I found it was not just about the ingredients but also about the love and care put into the process. Kneading the dough and watching it rise felt like a beautiful ritual. I invite you to join me in creating this delightful bread that not only nourishes the body but also the soul. Trust me; once you take that first bite of freshly baked Za’atar Bread, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in so many hearts.

Za’atar Bread Shopping List

When preparing to make Za’atar Bread, it’s essential to focus on quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component plays a vital role in developing the unique flavor and texture of the bread. The key players include active dry yeast for the perfect rise, all-purpose flour for structure, and the za’atar spice mix that infuses the bread with its signature taste.

• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 1/4 teaspoons sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling dough)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup za’atar spice mix

Recipe Directions for Za’atar Bread

Making Za’atar Bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and comforting aromas. Follow these steps to create your own masterpiece!

1. In a bowl, dissolve active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Allow it to sit until foamy, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast and ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
2. Transfer the yeast mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add in all-purpose flour, salt, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If at this stage the dough seems dry, add additional water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together smoothly.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the dough changing texture, becoming less sticky and more cohesive.
4. Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise until it doubles in size. This should take about 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the za’atar mixture. In a bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil with the za’atar spice mix to form a spreadable paste. This will add an incredible flavor to your bread.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring they remain even.
7. Spread the prepared za’atar mixture generously on top of each rolled-out piece, leaving a small border around the edges. This will allow the bread to rise properly without spilling over.
8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, place the rolled breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. You can brush with a bit of olive oil for added flavor and moisture. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Za’atar Bread.

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to add your personal touch to Za’atar Bread. Here are some creative ideas to inspire your culinary journey!

• Add Cheese: For a richer flavor, sprinkle some feta or mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
• Stuffing Variations: Consider adding roasted vegetables or olives for a delightful twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs in your dough or za’atar mix for a unique flavor profile.
• Serving Styles: Serve with hummus, labneh, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dough before rising. When you’re ready, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let it rise before baking.
• Individual Sizes: Instead of baking one large bread, divide the dough into smaller portions to create individual flatbreads.

Side Dish Ideas for Za’atar Bread

Za’atar Bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various dishes. Here are some great side dish ideas to complement your bread:

• Fresh Salads: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers makes a refreshing accompaniment.
• Soup Pairings: Serve warm Za’atar Bread alongside a hearty soup, like lentil or tomato, for a comforting meal.
• Mezze Platter: Create a mezze platter with dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, and tahini for a delightful sharing experience.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables pair beautifully, adding a smoky flavor that complements the herbaceous notes of the bread.
• Spiced Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of spiced yogurt for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Occasions: Perfect for gatherings, picnics, lunches, or even as a snack during Ramadan, Za’atar Bread is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

Za’atar Bread is a delightful recipe that combines tradition with flavor, making it a staple for any home cook. The ease of preparation and the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes make this bread truly special. I encourage you to try making it yourself and share it with your loved ones! You’ll find that it not only satisfies cravings but also brings people together around the table, creating cherished memories.

Za’atar Bread

Indulge in the aromatic flavors of homemade Za’atar Bread, a delightful and crispy bread that brings comfort to any meal. Perfectly spiced and easy to make, this recipe is bound to be a hit at your dinner table. Join me in baking this delicious bread tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 1/4 teaspoons sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling dough)
• 3/4 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup za'atar spice mix

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a bowl, dissolve active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Allow it to sit until foamy, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast and ensures your bread will rise beautifully.
2. Transfer the yeast mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add in all-purpose flour, salt, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If at this stage the dough seems dry, add additional water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together smoothly.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the dough changing texture, becoming less sticky and more cohesive.
4. Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise until it doubles in size. This should take about 1 hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the za’atar mixture. In a bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil with the za’atar spice mix to form a spreadable paste. This will add an incredible flavor to your bread.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring they remain even.
7. Spread the prepared za’atar mixture generously on top of each rolled-out piece, leaving a small border around the edges. This will allow the bread to rise properly without spilling over.
8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, place the rolled breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. You can brush with a bit of olive oil for added flavor and moisture. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Za’atar Bread.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for the best texture.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the dough before rising. When you’re ready, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let it rise before baking.
• Tip 3: Serve with hummus, baba ghanoush, and tahini for a delightful sharing experience.
• Tip 4: For a richer flavor, sprinkle some feta or mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
• Tip 5: Consider adding roasted vegetables or olives for a delightful twist.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.