Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Azerbaijan as we explore the time-honored tradition of making Azerbaijani Lavash. Lavash, a thin and unleavened flatbread, holds a special place in Azerbaijani cuisine, symbolizing not only the rich culinary heritage of the region but also the cultural significance attached to the art of bread-making.

In this culinary adventure, we will delve into the meticulous steps of crafting this versatile bread that has been a staple in Azerbaijani households for generations. From the selection of high-quality ingredients to the rhythmic dance of hands during the rolling process, each step contributes to the unique texture and flavor that make Azerbaijani Lavash a beloved accompaniment to a variety of dishes.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the preparation of Azerbaijani Lavash, celebrating the fusion of tradition and taste that has sustained this culinary masterpiece through the ages. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, this recipe promises to transport you to the vibrant kitchens of Azerbaijan, where the aroma of freshly baked Lavash invites everyone to the table.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• Cornmeal or flour for dusting

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.

2-Make a well in the center and gradually add the lukewarm water and olive oil. Mix well until a rough dough forms.

3-Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Divide and Rest:

1-Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.

2-Place the dough balls on a floured surface, cover them with a clean kitchen towel, and let them rest for about 30 minutes to relax the gluten.

Rolling Out:

1-Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually around 500°F or 260°C).

2-On a floured surface, take one dough ball and roll it out into a thin, almost transparent sheet. Traditionally, Lavash is rolled into large rounds, but you can also make smaller rounds if desired.

Baking:

1-Dust a baking sheet or a pizza stone with cornmeal or flour.

2-Carefully transfer the rolled-out Lavash onto the baking sheet.

3-Brush the surface of the Lavash with olive oil to keep it moist during baking.

4-Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until the Lavash is golden brown and crispy at the edges.

Repeat:While one Lavash is baking, you can roll out the next portion of dough to continue the process.

Cooling and Serving:

1-Once baked, remove the Lavash from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

2-Break into pieces or cut into desired shapes.

Enjoy:

Serve the Azerbaijani Lavash with your favorite dips, spreads, or use it to scoop up delicious stews and kebabs. The thin, crispy texture makes it a perfect accompaniment to various dishes.

Now, you're ready to savor the authentic taste of Azerbaijani Lavash, a culinary treasure that embodies the essence of Azerbaijani cuisine.

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values for the specified ingredients are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and measurements. Here's a general overview:

All-Purpose Flour (4 cups):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 100g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 1.6g
• Fiber: 4g

Benefit: A good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy. It also contains small amounts of protein and essential nutrients like iron and B-vitamins.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content
• Sodium: 2,325mg (Note: Actual sodium intake may vary based on the type of salt used)

Benefit: Adds flavor to the recipe. While excessive salt intake is not recommended, a small amount is essential for enhancing the taste of the bread and contributing to overall sodium balance in the body.

Lukewarm Water (1 1/2 cups):

• Negligible caloric content

Benefit: Necessary for hydrating the flour and activating gluten formation during kneading. Water is crucial for the development of the dough's structure.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 20g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Vitamin E: 3.2mg
• Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.2g
• Total Omega-6 Fatty Acids: 2.5g

Benefit: Adds moisture to the dough, resulting in a softer texture. Olive oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. It also contributes to the overall flavor and aroma of the Lavash.

Cornmeal or Flour for Dusting:

• Nutritional content is negligible as it is mainly used for dusting and not a significant part of the recipe.

Benefit: Used to prevent sticking during the rolling and baking process. It adds a bit of texture to the crust but doesn't significantly contribute to the nutritional content of the final product.

These values are meant to provide a general idea, and actual nutritional content may vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredients. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it's advisable to check the nutritional information on the packaging of the ingredients you use.