Nestled within the rich tapestry of Armenian culinary heritage, matnakash emerges as a culinary masterpiece, seamlessly blending tradition with the art of breadmaking. This age-old bread, with its distinctive texture and flavor, stands as a testament to the profound connection between Armenian culture and the culinary arts.

In this exploration, we embark on a journey through the flour-dusted alleys of Armenian bakeries, tracing the origins and evolution of matnakash. From its humble beginnings as a staple in Armenian households to its symbolic significance in cultural celebrations, this bread has become an integral part of Armenian gastronomy.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the preparation of matnakash, examining the meticulous craftsmanship and time-honored techniques that transform simple ingredients into a culinary treasure. Through the lens of matnakash, we delve into the heart of Armenian culinary traditions, where each loaf tells a story of resilience, community, and the enduring love for breaking bread together.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.

2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well, add salt, and start mixing the ingredients.

3. Knead the Dough: Begin kneading the dough on a floured surface or in the mixing bowl. Add the vegetable oil during kneading to incorporate it evenly into the dough. Knead for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Matnakash: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each into a round or oval loaf. Place the shaped loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

8. Egg Wash and Topping: Beat the egg and brush it over the surface of each loaf. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds for added flavor and texture.

9. Bake: Bake the matnakash in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the matnakash to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve with your favorite dips, cheeses, or enjoy it as a standalone delight.

This recipe yields aromatic, flavorful Armenian matnakash with a delightful crust and soft interior, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients used. Below are approximate values for the listed ingredients:

All-purpose flour (4 cups):

Calories: 1,600 kcal

Protein: 40g

Carbohydrates: 336g

Dietary Fiber: 12g

Fat: 0g

Benefits: A good source of complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, providing energy and supporting overall health.

Lukewarm water (1.5 cups):

Calories: 0 kcal

Protein: 0g

Carbohydrates: 0g

Fat: 0g

Benefits: Essential for hydration and plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion and nutrient absorption.

Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons):

Calories: 14 kcal

Protein: 2g

Carbohydrates: 3g

Fat: 0g

Benefits: A natural source of B vitamins, particularly B6, which aids in metabolism and supports the nervous system.

Sugar (1 tablespoon):

Calories: 49 kcal

Protein: 0g

Carbohydrates: 12.6g

Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides a quick source of energy for the yeast during fermentation, contributing to the rising of the dough.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

Calories: 0 kcal

Protein: 0g

Carbohydrates: 0g

Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps regulate the fermentation process. Additionally, it provides essential minerals like sodium.

Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon):

Calories: 120 kcal

Protein: 0g

Carbohydrates: 0g

Fat: 14g

Benefits: Adds moisture to the dough, resulting in a softer texture. Contains healthy fats and may contribute vitamin E and other antioxidants.

Egg (1, for egg wash):

Calories: 70 kcal

Protein: 6g

Carbohydrates: 1g

Fat: 5g

Benefits: Provides proteins for structure and richness to the bread. The egg wash gives a golden, shiny crust to the finished product.

Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping):

Calories: 52 kcal

Protein: 2g

Carbohydrates: 4g

Fat: 3g

Benefits: Both seeds offer a unique flavor and texture to the bread. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and various minerals. Nigella seeds may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

It's important to note that these values are approximations and can vary based on the specific brands and measurements used. Additionally, the nutritional content of the bread can be affected by factors such as the size of the loaves and the amount of seeds used for topping.