Fluffy Yemeni Malawah with Black Seed

Name: Fluffy Yemeni Malawah with Black Seed
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4-6
Cuisine: Snack
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon black seeds (nigella seeds); 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3/4 cup warm water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

A traditional layered Yemeni bread flavored with aromatic black seeds

Malawah is a popular Yemeni bread, known for its fluffy, flaky layers and unique flavor. Often served with honey or savory dips, this bread is a delicious addition to any meal.

1 h 30 min
4-6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon black seeds (nigella seeds)

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup warm water

For the Butter Mixture

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Optional Sweet Topping

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and black seeds.

Add oil and water

Add the vegetable oil and warm water gradually while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead and rest

Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 1 hour.

Allow the dough to rest for a full hour to achieve the flakiest layers.

Preparing the Butter Mixture

Melt the butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

Combine with oil

Stir in the vegetable oil until well combined.

Keep warm

Keep the mixture warm for easy application.

Cooking Process

Shaping the Malawah

After resting, divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin circle. Brush generously with the butter mixture.

Folding the Dough

Fold the circle in half, then into a quarter, creating a layered triangle. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

Use a non-stick rolling pin for easier dough handling.

Cooking the Malawah

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook each triangle until golden and flaky on both sides, brushing occasionally with the butter mixture.

Plating & Serving