Description
Persian Barbari flatbread is a magnificent yeast-leavened bread that holds a celebrated place in Iranian culinary heritage. Unlike thin flatbreads like lavash or pita, Barbari stands out due to its substantial height, impressive chewiness, and distinctive long oval shape. It is easily recognized by the deep longitudinal ridges pressed into its dough prior to baking, which create a delightful contrast between crispy high points and soft, pillowy valleys.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 3½ cups (450 g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Topping (Roomal)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish
- 1 tbsp nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- A pinch of sea salt
- Optional: dried herbs such as thyme or za’atar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly foamy. - Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Topping:
In a small saucepan, whisk flour, water, and baking soda. Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool. - Shape the Bread:
Transfer the dough to a lined baking tray. Flatten it into a long oval shape about ½ inch thick. - Use your fingers to create traditional lengthwise ridges across the dough.
- Brush generously with the topping mixture and sprinkle with nigella seeds, sesame seeds, and a little salt.
- Bake:
Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crisp on top. - Serve:
Let cool slightly and serve warm with feta cheese, fresh herbs, yogurt, hummus, or Persian tea.
Notes
- For the best texture, allow the dough enough time to rise slowly.
- Nigella seeds add a unique earthy, onion-like flavor, but sesame seeds can be used alone if preferred.
- Barbari is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in the oven to restore its crisp crust
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Persian / Iranian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180 kcal
Keywords: Iranian Barbari bread recipe, homemade Barbari flatbread, traditional Persian bread with seeds, golden Barbari flatbread recipe