Khubz, or Arabic bread, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up dips, wrapping around grilled meats, or just enjoying with a drizzle of olive oil. Making khubz at home can be a rewarding experience, and it’s simpler than you might think! Here are three diverse, practical examples of step-by-step khubz recipes that cater to different tastes and occasions.
This classic recipe yields soft and pillowy khubz that can accompany any meal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a round disc about ¼ inch thick. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside. Transfer the discs onto the hot surface and bake for about 3-5 minutes until puffed and lightly browned. Enjoy your khubz warm!
This healthier version uses whole wheat flour, providing a nutty flavor and added nutrition.
In a bowl, mix 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of honey. In another bowl, combine 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of yeast with 1 ½ cups of warm water and let it activate for 5 minutes. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until it is smooth. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour. After rising, divide the dough into 10 pieces and shape them into balls. Roll each ball into a 6-inch circle. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each khubz for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it puffs up and has golden spots. Serve warm with hummus or your favorite dip.
This version is perfect for a hearty snack or light meal, featuring a delicious spinach and cheese filling.
Start by making the dough as in the traditional recipe: mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then combine with the yeast mixture. Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by sautéing 2 cups of fresh spinach in a skillet with a splash of olive oil until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a disc, place a tablespoon of filling in the center, and fold the dough over to create a pocket. Pinch the edges to seal. Roll the stuffed dough gently to flatten it. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) and bake for about 6-8 minutes until golden and puffed. Enjoy as a standalone dish or with yogurt sauce.
With these examples of step-by-step khubz (Arabic bread) recipes, you’re well on your way to enjoying this delightful bread fresh from your kitchen. Happy baking!