Sure! Letโs delve into the delightful world of Sourdough Mannaeesh, a cherished Middle Eastern favorite thatโs bound to tantalize your taste buds with its soft, puffy bread and versatile stuffing options! ๐ฅ๐ฟ
Sourdough Mannaeesh Recipe
Overview:
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours and 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 puffs
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Category: Sourdough Breads
Description:
Mannaeesh, originating from the heart of the Middle East, is a culinary delight lightly leavened to yield a soft, pillowy bread that forms a hollow pouch, ready to be filled with an array of delicious ingredients. This recipe, inspired by โWorld Sourdoughs From Antiquityโ by Ed Wood, promises a baking adventure thatโs as enjoyable to create as it is to savor!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups white bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the sourdough starter into a large mixing bowl. |
| 2 | In a separate container, dissolve the salt and sugar in warm water, then add this mixture to the sourdough starter, stirring well to combine. |
| 3 | Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture, adding one cup at a time, and stirring until the dough becomes too stiff to mix by hand. |
| 4 | Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead in the remaining flour until the dough achieves a satiny texture. |
| 5 | Divide the dough into 10 equal-sized balls. |
| 6 | Roll each ball into a flat round approximately 1/4 inch thick. |
| 7 | Cover the rounds and allow them to proof at 85 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 to 2 hours. |
| 8 | While the dough proofs, combine the olive oil, dried thyme, marjoram, and sesame seeds in a bowl. |
| 9 | Spread a generous amount of the olive oil mixture onto the surface of each dough round. |
| 10 | Preheat the oven and a baking sheet to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| 11 | Using a large spatula, carefully transfer each round onto the preheated baking sheet. |
| 12 | Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the rounds puff up suddenly, forming a central cavity. |
| 13 | Once baked, transfer the Mannaeesh to wire racks to cool. |
Notes:
- Bread Machine Option: This recipe can be halved and prepared using a bread machine set to the dough cycle. After the dough is ready, proceed with shaping and baking as instructed above.
With its aromatic blend of herbs, fragrant olive oil, and the satisfying chew of the sourdough base, Sourdough Mannaeesh is a culinary masterpiece thatโs sure to elevate any mealtime experience. Enjoy the process of crafting these delectable puffs and savor the rich flavors of the Middle East with every bite! ๐๐
