Lebanese thyme bread

(Lebanese thyme bread)

1 Tbsp (1 enveloppe) active dry yeast (or 1/2 oz compressed yeast)

1 tsp sugar

1 1/4 c lukewarm water

3 1/4 c all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

6 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

4 Tbsp zaatar ( = 2 heaped tsp dried thyme + 1 heaped tsp dried marjoram + 3 Tbsp sesame seeds)

Proof the yeast in a few tablespoons of the warm water, with

the sugar mixed in.

Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add teh yeast mixture and remaining water and knead until

you have a firm dough. Transgfer to a floured work surface and continue to knead for 10-15 minutes or until smooth and elastic.

During this time, knea in 1 tablespoon olive oil into the dough - this will make it softer.

Wash and dry the mixing bowl and grease with a little oil. Add the dough andand roll around in the bowl until well oiled. Cover with a clean cloth and leave in a warm place to rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in bulk.

10 portions and roll each between your palms until smooth and round. Flour a work surface. Flatten each round with a rolling pin until it is circular, even, and about 1/4 inch thick. Cover and leave in a warm place to rise for 20 more minutes. Preheat the oven to

450F. Put

2 large oiled baking sheets in the oven to heat.

Brush the tops of the rounds with a little of the olive oil, Mix the remaining oil with the zaatar and spread the mixture over the surface of each round.

Slide the bread onto the hot baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and place on wire racks to cool.

(From: Patisserie of the Eastern Mediterranean, by

Arto der Haroutunian; edited by McGraw-Hill)