Discover how to make Katama, a traditional flaky layered bread that's perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating this versatile bread, which can be stuffed with butter, herbs, or other flavorful fillings. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish, Katama combines crispy layers with a soft, tender interior. Explore the full recipe and tips for achieving the perfect Katama every time.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 1 cup warm water

- 2 tbsp active dry yeast

- 1/4 cup melted butter (for dough)

- 1/2 cup melted butter (for layering)

- Optional: garlic, herbs, cheese, or other fillings

Instructions:

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

  - In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Make the Dough:

 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.

  - Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

  - Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Layers:

  - Punch down the dough and divide it into 2 equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface into a thin rectangle.

  - Brush melted butter over the surface of the first rectangle. If desired, sprinkle with garlic, herbs, or cheese.

Layer the Dough:

  - Place the second rectangle on top of the first, pressing gently. Brush the top with more melted butter.

  - Cut the layered dough into squares or strips.

Second Rise:

  - Arrange the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Bake:

  - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Katama for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  - Allow the Katama to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm as a delicious snack, breakfast, or side dish.

Feel free to customize the fillings to your taste and enjoy this delightful bread fresh out of the oven!

Nutritional Values:

All-Purpose Flour:

 - Calories: 455

 - Carbohydrates: 95g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 1.2g

 - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

 - Provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

 - Contains some protein for muscle repair.

 - A good source of B vitamins, which help in energy metabolism.

Salt:

 - Sodium: 2,300mg (100% of daily value)

Benefits:

 - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Used in moderation, it enhances flavor.

Sugar:

 - Calories: 48

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides quick energy.

 - Helps activate yeast for dough rising.

Warm Water:

 - 0 calories

 - 0 carbohydrates

 - 0 protein

 - 0 fat

Benefits:

 - Hydrates the dough.

 - Activates the yeast for leavening.

Active Dry Yeast:

 - Calories: 21

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides a good source of B vitamins and protein.

 - Helps the dough rise and gives the bread its fluffy texture.

Melted Butter:

 - Calories: 102

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 12g

 - Saturated Fat: 7g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and richness to the bread.

 - Provides fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

 - Contributes to the flaky texture of the layers.

Optional Fillings (e.g., garlic, herbs, cheese):

Garlic:

  - Calories: 4

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Rich in antioxidants.

  - May support cardiovascular health and immune function.

Herbs (e.g., parsley, rosemary):

  - Calories: 1-2

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Provide essential vitamins and minerals.

  - Enhance flavor and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Cheese (e.g., cheddar):

  - Calories: 115

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 7g

  - Fat: 9g

Benefits:

  - Good source of calcium and protein.

  - Adds flavor and richness to the bread.

Incorporating these ingredients into your Katama recipe not only enhances the flavor and texture but also provides various nutritional benefits.