| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
About Sangak
Sangak bread, a Persian staple, baked to a crispy perfection, sprinkled with a generous layer of sesame seeds. While it may look simple, Sangak packs an unforgettable flavor that you just won’t find in a standard loaf. This type of bread is perfect for a range of different dishes, adding flare to any culinary setting.
Origins and Preparation
Originating from Iran, Sangak’s name literally translates to ‘little stone. This comes from the traditional method of baking, where the dough is set on a bed of hot pebbles to create that distinctive texture. Baking this bread at home is a delightful experience. As the baker, you witness the magic of simple ingredients like warm water, active dry yeast, salt, sugar, and olive oil coming together to create something uniquely delicious.
The Wonderful World of Sangak
One cannot talk about Sangak without mentioning its nutty counterpart – sesame seeds. These small, crunchy seeds add not just a wonderful texture but also a delightful depth to the overall flavor. The incorporation of sesame seeds is what truly sets this bread apart, infusing each bite with a beautiful, savory taste.
Dishes to Enjoy with Sangak
Sangak bread pairs well with a multitude of Persian dishes, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts. Traditionally, it serves as the perfect base for Sabzi Khordan, a popular Persian herb platter. The hearty texture of Sangak also makes it an excellent choice for sandwiches and wraps. Additionally, this bread can be an amazing accompaniment to slow-cooked lamb, absorbing the rich, meaty juices, creating a treat for your taste buds.
In essence, Sangak is not just bread. It is a culinary journey, a testament to the rich culture inherent in every bite. The next time you explore the realms of baking, consider Sangak – your taste buds will thank you.
What You’ll Need
- 4.5 cups of Bread Flour
- 2.25 cups of Warm Water
- 3 teaspoons of Active Dry Yeast
- 2 teaspoons of Salt
- 1 teaspoon of Sugar
- 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 1 cup of Sesame Seeds
Method
Step One
Start by taking a large bowl and mix in it, 2.25 cups of warm water and 3 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir them together until you see the yeast fully dissolved. Then, add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the mix and stir until it’s fully dissolved too. Let the mixture rest for about fifteen minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step Two
After the yeast mixture has rested, add 4.5 cups of bread flour to the bowl gradually while stirring at the same time. This will help prevent forming lumps in your dough. Then, add in 2 teaspoons of salt, ensuring you mix thoroughly so it’s evenly distributed in the dough.
Step Three
Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the dough and mix it in. After that, start kneading the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth and elastic. This should generally take about 10 minutes. Once your dough is well kneaded, cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step Four
Preheat your oven to 220°C. While that’s heating up, turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape them into oval or rectangular shapes, depending on your preference.
Step Five
Just before you put your dough in the oven, sprinkle 1 cup of sesame seeds evenly all over the top of the doughs. Use a rolling pin to lightly press the sesame seeds into the dough to ensure they stick.
Step Six
Bake your sangak bread in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until you notice a nice golden brown color. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. Your sangak bread is now ready to be served and enjoyed!
