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Kuwaiti Khubz (Traditional Flatbread)

Photo by Kadir Altıntaş on Pexels

Kuwaiti Khubz (Traditional Flatbread)

Kuwaiti Khubz is a staple on every table, known for its soft, pillowy texture and slight sweetness, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

4 servings (default)Kuwait

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • For the Dough
  • 4 cups Bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups Warm water
  • 1 teaspoon Instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • For Topping
  • 2 tablespoons Water
  • 1 teaspoon Nigella seeds (Habbat al-Baraka)
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds

Method

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    10 min

    In a small bowl, combine the instant yeast and sugar with ½ cup of the warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Dough

    1 hr

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, the remaining 1 cup of warm water, and the vegetable oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough vigorously for about 8-10 minutes until it's smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky to the touch. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

  3. 3

    Shape the Loaves

    Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Transfer it to a clean surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Take each piece and gently shape it into a smooth, round ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a disc, about ½ inch thick.

  4. 4

    Second Rise and Preheat Oven

    30 min

    Arrange the shaped dough discs on lightly floured baking sheets, ensuring they have some space between them. Cover them loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest and rise again for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F).

  5. 5

    Add Topping

    Just before baking, lightly brush the top of each risen dough disc with water. Generously sprinkle the nigella seeds and sesame seeds over the top of each loaf.

  6. 6

    Bake the Khubz

    15 min

    Carefully transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the khubz are beautifully puffed up and golden brown on top and bottom. They should have a slightly crisp exterior.

  7. 7

    Cool and Serve

    Once baked, remove the khubz from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve your delicious Kuwaiti Khubz warm, or at room temperature, alongside your favorite stews, dips, or main dishes.