Middle Eastern > Middle Eastern Breads > Saj Bread

Saj Bread with Za'atar and Olive Oil Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons za'atar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing

Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and olive oil.
3. Slowly add the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Brush each circle with olive oil and sprinkle with za'atar.
8. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 400°F
Serving Size: 8 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Za'atar can be substituted with any other herbs or spices.

Variations:
- The dough can be rolled into a log and cut into slices for a different shape.
- The dough can be topped with other herbs or spices such as oregano or thyme.

Tips and Tricks:
- The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Storage Instructions:
The saj bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The saj bread can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or in a toaster oven for 2 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
The saj bread can be served on a platter with a variety of dips and spreads such as hummus, tahini, or labneh.

Garnishes:
The saj bread can be garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint.

Pairings:
The saj bread pairs well with other Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and tabbouleh.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The saj bread can be served with a side of Greek salad, tzatziki, or baba ghanoush.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a few tablespoons of water.
- If the dough is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour.

Food Safety Advice:
- Always wash your hands before and after handling food.
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Keep cooked food at a safe temperature.

Food History:
Saj bread is a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread that is believed to have originated in the Levant region. It is typically served with za'atar, olive oil, and other dips and spreads.

Flavor Profiles:
Saj bread has a slightly nutty flavor from the za'atar and a light, crispy texture from the olive oil.

Serving Suggestions:
Saj bread can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.

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Region: Middle Eastern

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbal, Nutty, Aromatic