AlArab24
EN|عر
Recipes

Emirati Khamir Bread

Khamir is a beloved traditional Emirati bread, known for its soft, slightly sweet, and pillowy texture. It's a versatile staple enjoyed with every meal, from breakfast with cheese and date syrup to hearty lunches.

4 servings (default)United Arab Emirates

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Warm milk
  • ½ cup Warm water
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cardamom (optional)
  • For Topping
  • 1 Egg, beaten
  • Sesame seeds
  • Nigella seeds (black cumin)

Method

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    10 min

    In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and then let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates your yeast is active and ready to use!

  2. 2

    Mix and Knead the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and the optional ground cardamom. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, warm milk, and vegetable oil (or ghee). Mix everything until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 7-10 minutes until it's smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. Form it into a ball.

  3. 3

    First Rise

    1.5 hr

    Lightly grease the same mixing bowl. Place the dough ball inside, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

  4. 4

    Shape the Khamir

    Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten it into a round disc, roughly 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter. Place the shaped khamir on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  5. 5

    Top and Bake

    20 min

    Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly brush the surface of each khamir disc with the beaten egg. Then, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and nigella seeds for that classic look and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the khamir are golden brown and puffed up.

  6. 6

    Serve

    Your Emirati Khamir is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. It's wonderfully versatile – perfect for dipping in date syrup, pairing with cheese, or accompanying your favorite stews.