Flatbread (Qatari Khubz Arabi)

Qatari Khubz Arabi is Arabian bread that is popular all over the Middle East and Gulf region. I can just imagine the smell of this pillowy bread wafting through the air in the souks of Qatar. It is surprisingly easy to make and is absolutely scrumptious with the main dish called harees. It is so exciting to see it puff up in the oven. You can use this bread for just about anything. You will simply fall in love with it. This bread is also used as a utensil in Qatar you break off a piece and use it to scoop up whatever it is you are eating whether it be baba ganoush or machboos. We used it to scoop up the creamy and delicious main dish we made for Qatar called harees. Seriously the possibilities are simply endless. Also because the khubz arabi make a nice pocket similar to a pita, you could use it to also make sandwiches.

1½ cups water, warm
1 pkg active dry yeast
1½ tsp. sea salt
3 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached, sifted
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

In a large bowl, pour in the warm water and add in the yeast, stir until the yeast is dissolved.

Add in the salt.

Start gradually adding in the flour and oil while kneading, you want to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Put the dough into a large greased bowl and turn dough to grease all sides.

Cover with a dry tea towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size about 1 ½ hours.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C/170°C fan, Gas Mark 5).

Punch dough gently. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into smooth balls.

Place on a floured work surface and dust tops lightly with flour.

Cover with a dry tea towel and let rest for 15 minutes.

Roll out each ball into a 6" diameter circle.

Place on greased baking sheets.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread puffs. Do not leave unattended while baking.

Makes 6 servings.