Discover how to make Naan-e Kord, a traditional Kurdish bread that perfectly complements your meals. This recipe guides you through creating this flavorful and soft bread, a staple in Kurdish cuisine. Ideal for enhancing any dish, Naan-e Kord is a must-try for anyone interested in authentic Kurdish flavors. Explore step-by-step instructions and tips for baking this delicious bread at home.

Ingredients:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup warm water

- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast:

  - In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix until the dough begins to come together.

Knead the Dough:

  - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Let the Dough Rise:

  - Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Naan-e Kord:

  - Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or prepare a flatbread pan if using a stovetop method.

  - Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a round or oval shape about 1/4 inch thick.

Add Toppings (Optional):

  - Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each naan if desired, pressing them lightly into the dough.

Bake or Cook:

  - Oven Method: Place the naan-e kord on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.

  - Stovetop Method: Heat a flatbread pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until brown spots appear and the bread is cooked through.

Cool and Serve:

  - Let the naan-e kord cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite Kurdish dishes.

Tips:

- For a softer texture, cover the dough with a damp cloth while it rises to prevent it from drying out.

- Experiment with different toppings or herbs for added flavor.

Enjoy making and sharing this traditional Kurdish bread!

Nutritional Values :

All-Purpose Flour

 - Calories: 1,320

 - Protein: 36g

 - Carbohydrates: 276g

 - Fiber: 12g

 - Fat: 3g

Benefits: Provides a significant source of carbohydrates for energy. The fiber content supports digestive health, and when enriched, it contains essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

Warm Water:

 - Calories: 0

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Essential for hydration and helps activate yeast, which is crucial for the dough's rise.

Active Dry Yeast:

 - Calories: 23

 - Protein: 2.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 2.8g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits: Provides beneficial yeast for fermentation, enhancing the texture and flavor of the bread. It also adds a small amount of protein and B vitamins, supporting overall health.

Sugar:

 - Calories: 16

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Helps activate yeast by providing a quick source of energy. Enhances the flavor and texture of the bread.

Salt:

 - Calories: 0

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances the flavor of the bread and helps regulate yeast fermentation. It is also essential for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.

Olive Oil:

 - Calories: 240

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Fat: 28g (of which 4g are saturated fats)

Benefits: Adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Contains antioxidants and vitamin E, supporting skin health and reducing inflammation.

Sesame Seeds (Optional):

 - Calories: 52

 - Protein: 1.6g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Fiber: 1g

 - Fat: 4.5g

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Provides dietary fiber and antioxidants, which support bone health and overall well-being.