Aromatic Lebanese Kaak

Name: Aromatic Lebanese Kaak
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 large kaaks
Cuisine: Snack
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup warm water; 1 egg; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 tsp anise seeds; 1 egg

Delight your senses with a traditional Lebanese bread

A beloved street food, Lebanese Kaak is a savory and aromatic bread, enriched with sesame seeds and a hint of anise, perfect for breakfast or snacking.

1 h 45 min
4 large kaaks
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1 tsp salt

1/4 cup sugar

1 cup warm water

1 egg

2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Toppings

3 tbsp sesame seeds

1 tsp anise seeds

1 egg

beaten (for egg wash)

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Dissolve Yeast and Sugar

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand until frothy, about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and vegetable oil.

Knead the Dough

Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.

Proofing the Dough

Proof the Dough

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Do not over-knead the dough as it can become tough. Pro Tip: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes if it becomes sticky while kneading.

Cooking Process

Shape the Kaak

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces, and shape each into an elongated oval ring with a large hole in the middle.

Top with Seeds

Brush each kaak with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with sesame and anise seeds.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place shaped kaaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Plating & Serving