Authentic Khoubz: Traditional Algerian Bread Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp instant yeast
1.5 cups lukewarm water
1 tbsp olive oil

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
Gradually add the lukewarm water to the mixture, stirring continuously.
Once a dough begins to form, add the olive oil and knead the dough in the bowl for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 220 degrees Celsius (428 degrees Fahrenheit) and place a baking stone or a heavy baking sheet inside.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it with a rolling pin into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.
Place the discs on a piece of parchment paper and let them rest for 15 minutes.
Transfer the dough discs onto the preheated baking stone or baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the bread puffs up and the bottom becomes lightly browned.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tools for making

Large bowl - for mixing the dough ingredients
Rolling pin - to flatten the dough into discs
Baking stone or heavy baking sheet - for baking the bread
Parchment paper - to place the dough discs on before baking
Damp cloth - to cover the bowl while the dough rises
Wire rack - for cooling the bread after baking

Recipe variations

Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Adding herbs and spices like garlic powder, oregano, or za'atar to the dough for added flavor.
Using different types of flour such as rye flour, spelt flour, or almond flour for a unique taste and texture.
Making a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour blends or substituting with a gluten-free flour like rice flour or chickpea flour.
Adding seeds or nuts such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or chopped walnuts to the dough for added crunch.
Making mini khoubz by dividing the dough into smaller portions and shaping them into smaller discs.
Creating stuffed khoubz by placing fillings like cheese, olives, or vegetables in the center of each dough disc before baking.
Brushing the khoubz with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkling with sea salt or herbs after baking for added flavor.
Adding a touch of sweetness by incorporating honey or maple syrup into the dough.
Making a vegan version by substituting the water with plant-based milk and using vegetable oil instead of olive oil.

Recipe overview

Khoubz, also known as Arabic bread, is a type of flatbread that is a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own homemade Khoubz with simple, everyday ingredients. The bread is light, fluffy, and perfect for dipping in hummus or using as a wrap for falafel or shawarma. This recipe requires some time for the dough to rise, but the actual hands-on time is minimal. The result is fresh, delicious bread that is worth the wait. You can expect this recipe to yield 8 pieces of bread, enough to serve a family or save for leftovers. All you need is some flour, salt, sugar, yeast, water, and olive oil to get started. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade Khoubz!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour like whole wheat flour or bread flour. However, using all-purpose flour yields the best results.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. However, you will need to activate the yeast in warm water and sugar before adding it to the flour mixture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let the dough come to room temperature and rise for a second time before baking.
Can I freeze the bread? Yes, you can freeze the baked bread. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough? Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or spices like garlic powder or cumin to the dough to add extra flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients and knead the dough.
Baking stone or heavy baking sheet - Used to bake the Khoubz and achieve a crispy crust.
Rolling pin - To flatten the dough into discs before baking.
Parchment paper - Used to prevent the dough from sticking to the baking surface.
Damp cloth - To cover the dough while it rises.
Wire rack - Used to cool the bread after baking.

Origin stories

Khoubz, also known as Arab or Lebanese bread, is a staple in many Middle Eastern countries. Its history spans centuries and is deeply intertwined with the culture and daily life of the people. The process of bread making, including Khoubz, often served as a communal activity in traditional Middle Eastern societies. Women would gather to knead and bake the dough in communal ovens, turning this daily task into a social event. The simplicity of its ingredients—flour, water, salt, and yeast—belies the skill and experience required to achieve its characteristic texture and flavor. Interestingly, in Arabic, the word 'Khoubz' simply means 'bread', signifying the importance and ubiquity of this humble loaf in the diet.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.