Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
145 | 5g | 1g | 21g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
1g | 1g | 4g | 0.4g |
Memories of New England
There’s something beautifully nostalgic about making bread, and our Sesame Sumac Flatbread takes this to a whole new level. Every time I prepare this recipe in my kitchen, I am drawn back to the coasts of Maine. The aroma of fresh dough, the warmth of the oven, and the delightful tang of sumac all blend together to create a sensory experience that feels both cozy and adventurous.
This flatbread, with its nutty sesame seeds and zesty sumac, is a wonderful twist on traditional recipes. The integration of Greek yogurt adds a moist, tangy element, while olive oil provides a subtle richness. Every bite reveals layers of flavor and a hint of the exotic, thanks to the sumac. It’s reminiscent of the vibrant Middle Eastern markets, yet it pairs perfectly with various New England seafood dishes, such as clam chowder or a hearty lobster bisque.
A Wholesome Indulgence
Not only is the Sesame Sumac Flatbread delicious, but it also packs some impressive health benefits. Whole grains from the all-purpose flour provide essential nutrients and dietary fiber. Sesame seeds are a powerhouse of minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. Sumac is known for its antioxidant properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and improving heart health. Including Greek yogurt ensures a dose of protein and probiotics, promoting good digestion and a robust immune system.
This flatbread recipe is not only versatile but also accommodating to various meals and occasions. Whether you enjoy it as an accompaniment to your favorite humus dip, as a canvas for creative toppings, or alongside a fresh, green salad, it’s an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s similar to Mediterranean flatbreads and deliciously akin to the popular Middle Eastern manakish, making it a perfect pairing with dishes like tabbouleh or baba ganoush.
My two daughters, Erin and Samantha, often join me in the kitchen, and this recipe has become a family favorite. It’s an easy and fun way to introduce children to the joys of baking and the diverse flavors of the world. The dough is simple to work with, and watching it rise is like magic to kids.
For those who love to explore new flavors while cherishing the comfort of tried-and-true methods, the Sesame Sumac Flatbread is a must-try. With the merging of traditional bread-making and delightful, unique ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- Extra flour for rolling
- Extra olive oil for brushing
Method
Step One
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, sesame seeds, and sumac. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step Three
Add the Greek yogurt and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl as well.
Step Four
Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step Five
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step Six
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
Step Seven
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball out into a thin circle or oval, about 1/4 inch thick. Use extra flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Step Eight
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Brush one side of the rolled-out dough with olive oil and place it, oil-side down, on the hot skillet.
Step Nine
Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom has golden brown spots. Brush the top side with olive oil, flip the flatbread, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step Ten
Remove the flatbread from the skillet and keep it warm by covering with a clean kitchen towel. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
Step Eleven
Serve the sesame sumac flatbread warm, as an accompaniment to dips, spreads, or your favorite dishes. Enjoy!