Discover how to make Kaak, a beloved Lebanese street food often compared to bagels. This easy recipe features a traditional dough topped with sesame seeds and za'atar, creating a savory and aromatic treat. Perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings, Kaak is a flavorful addition to any meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to make these delightful Lebanese bagels at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- ¼ cup za'atar spice blend
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Kaak:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten into a disc about ¼ inch thick.
- Using your fingers, create a small hole in the center of each disc to form a bagel shape. Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet.
Add Toppings:
- Brush each Kaak with a little water and sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds and za'atar.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Kaak are golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Kaak to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a tasty snack, this Kaak recipe brings the taste of Lebanon right to your kitchen!
Nutritional Values:
All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups):
- Calories: 1,200
- Protein: 36 grams
- Carbohydrates: 240 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Fat: 3 grams
Benefits: Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy. Whole grain alternatives can offer more fiber and nutrients.
Warm Water (1 cup):
- Calories: 0
- Protein: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fiber: 0
- Fat: 0
Benefits: Essential for hydration and helps in activating yeast for dough rising.
Active Dry Yeast (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 21
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits: Provides live cultures that aid in fermentation and dough leavening. Rich in B vitamins and minerals.
Sugar (2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 96
- Protein: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits: Provides a quick source of energy. In baking, it helps with the fermentation process of yeast.
Salt (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 0
- Protein: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Benefits: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity in dough. Essential for electrolyte balance and hydration.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Fat: 27 grams (mostly monounsaturated fats)
Benefits: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Supports cardiovascular health and adds moisture to the dough.
Sesame Seeds (¼ cup):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Fat: 18 grams (mostly unsaturated fats)
Benefits: High in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Supports bone health and provides antioxidants.
Za'atar Spice Blend (¼ cup):
- Calories: 30
- Protein: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
Benefits: Often contains herbs like thyme, oregano, and marjoram, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Adds flavor and may support digestive health.
This Kaak recipe combines these ingredients to offer a tasty and nutritious snack that supports overall well-being.
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