Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Armenia with a delightful recipe that will tantalize your taste buds? Meet Churek, the irresistible flatbread adorned with crunchy sesame seeds that will elevate any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you whipping up a batch of these golden, fluffy delights in just under an hour! Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying fresh out of the oven, Churek is not just bread; it's an experience. Dive into the world of Armenian cuisine and discover how to create this mouthwatering bread that will leave your family and friends begging for more!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Armenian
Serves: 8 pieces
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the ingredients start to come together.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 20-30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a round disc about 1/4 inch thick. You can use your hands or a rolling pin for this step.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of each disc, pressing them gently into the dough to help them stick.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Place the shaped discs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rest for about 10 minutes while the oven heats up.
- Bake the Churek in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Once baked, remove the Churek from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Armenian flatbread!
Tips
- Proofing the Yeast: Make sure your water is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. A frothy mixture indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
- Kneading Technique: When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. This technique helps develop gluten for a better texture.
- Resting the Dough: Give the dough enough time to rise in a warm spot; this is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. A cozy kitchen corner or near a warm oven works wonders!
- Sesame Seed Topping: For extra flavor, consider toasting the sesame seeds lightly before sprinkling them on the dough. This enhances their nutty taste and adds a delightful crunch.
- Baking Watch: Keep a close eye on your Churek as they bake. Ovens can vary, and you want them to be golden brown, not overly dark. A light touch on the top should feel firm yet springy.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Churek warm with dips like hummus or alongside soups and stews for a complete meal. They also make excellent sandwich bases for a twist on traditional fare!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
