Authentic Middle Eastern Lafa Bread Recipe

Ingredients

3 cups of bread flour
1 tablespoon of dry yeast
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of sugar
1 1/4 cups of warm water
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Steps and instructions

In a large mixing bowl combine the bread flour, dry yeast, salt, and sugar.
Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
Mix all the ingredients together using a spoon or a dough hook until the dough starts to come together.
Once the dough starts to form, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm area for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
Preheat your oven along with a pizza stone or baking sheet to 475 degrees F (245 degrees C).
Roll out each ball of dough into a thin round circle on a lightly floured surface.
Cook each flatbread on the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet for about 2-3 minutes or until puffed up and lightly browned.
Remove the cooked flatbread from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Continue with the remaining dough.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
Spoon or Dough Hook - Used to mix the ingredients together and knead the dough.
Flour - Used for dusting the surface while kneading and rolling out the dough.
Greased Bowl - A bowl that has been coated with oil to prevent the dough from sticking.
Damp Cloth - A cloth that is slightly moistened and placed over the dough to keep it hydrated and prevent it from drying out while it rises.
Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet - Used to bake the flatbread in the oven.
Wire Rack - A rack used to cool the cooked flatbread and allow air circulation.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for a healthier option.
Add herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
Replace the olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
Add toppings like sliced olives, diced tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese before baking the flatbread.
Make a sweet version by adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough and topping it with cinnamon sugar.
Create a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of bread flour.
For a vegan option, substitute the warm water with warm vegetable broth and omit the olive oil, or use a plant-based alternative.
Experiment with different fillings to make flavorful wraps, such as falafel, grilled vegetables, or marinated tofu.
Add a Middle Eastern twist by incorporating za'atar seasoning into the dough or sprinkling it on top before baking.

Recipe overview

This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to making your very own traditional Lafa, a Middle Eastern flatbread that's soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious. This staple food is a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire, pairing beautifully with many dishes or acting as a fantastic base for wraps and sandwiches. The ingredients are simple and the process, while requiring a bit of patience for the dough to rise, is straightforward and rewarding. This recipe yields 6 flatbreads, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. So, roll up your sleeves and let's embark on this culinary journey to bring a piece of Middle Eastern tradition into your home kitchen. Enjoy the process and more importantly, the delicious outcome!

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and rise of the lafa may vary slightly.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. After the dough has risen, punch it down and place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be stored for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I need a pizza stone or baking sheet?
Using a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet helps to achieve a crispy bottom on the lafa. If you don't have one, you can still cook the flatbread on a regular baking sheet, but the texture may differ slightly.
Can I freeze the cooked lafa?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked lafa. Once it has cooled completely, wrap each flatbread tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Can I add herbs or seasonings to the dough?
Absolutely! If you'd like to add herbs or seasonings to the dough, you can do so during the mixing process. Add them along with the dry ingredients for even distribution.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Spoon or Dough Hook - Used to mix the dough ingredients together.
Flour - Additional flour for dusting the surface and preventing sticking.
Greased Bowl - A bowl coated with oil or cooking spray to place the dough in for rising.
Damp Cloth - A cloth to cover the dough while it rises, keeping it moist.
Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet - Preheated in the oven to cook the flatbreads on.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the cooked flatbreads.

Origin stories

Lafa, also known as Iraqi pita, has deep roots in Middle Eastern cuisine. This bread has been a staple food in the region for thousands of years, dating back to ancient times. In the arid desert climates of the Middle East, traditional bakers would prepare the dough at dawn and let it rise with the morning sun before baking it in hot, stone ovens. The resulting flatbread was not only a daily sustenance but also a symbol of hospitality and fellowship. In fact, in many parts of the Middle East, bread is so revered that if a piece of it falls to the ground, it is picked up and kissed as a sign of respect. Today, lafa is enjoyed around the world, with each region adding its own unique twist to the timeless recipe.

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.