One sunny afternoon, as I strolled through the vibrant local market, I stumbled upon a stall overflowing with fragrant herbs and exotic spices. The air was thick with the earthy aroma of zaatar, a Middle Eastern blend of thyme, sesame, and sumac. Instantly inspired, I decided to create a flatbread that would serve as a canvas for these delightful flavors. The idea blossomed into a whimsical herb and zaatar flatbread, perfect for sharing with friends over a glass of fresh mint tea or as a delightful appetizer at gatherings. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
To begin, in a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour and salt together, creating a well in the center for the wet ingredients.
Pour the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the well of flour. Gently stir until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is where the dough gains its strength and character!
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. During this time, take a moment to appreciate the lovely aroma of herbs wafting through your kitchen.
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a disc about ¼ inch thick. Place the discs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing them space to breathe.
Before baking, brush each flatbread with olive oil and generously sprinkle zaatar over the surface. Don’t forget to add the finely chopped parsley and mint for that fresh burst of flavor. Top it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a touch of coarse sea salt.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and let the flatbreads rest for about 15 minutes while the oven heats up. This ensures they puff up beautifully when they hit the oven.
Once the oven is ready, bake the flatbreads for 10-12 minutes or until they turn golden brown and puffed up, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. As they bake, gather your favorite dips, spreads, or simply enjoy them warm, straight out of the oven!
Serve these whimsical herb and zaatar flatbreads alongside a refreshing yogurt dip or your favorite salad. They are perfect for sharing, dipping, and savoring every delightful bite. Enjoy this journey of flavors that began with a simple stroll through the market!