Egyptian Balady Bread/ National bread of Egypt

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making Egyptian Balady Bread, a staple in Egyptian cuisine. This bread is not only delicious but also reflects the rich culinary traditions of Egypt. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this versatile bread that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Gather the following ingredients:

   • 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
   • 1 tablespoon of sugar
   • 1/4 cup of warm water

2. In a small bowl, combine the yeast and sugar with the warm water.

3. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • 2 cups of bread flour
   • 2 cups of whole wheat flour
   • 1 tablespoon of salt

2. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the salt.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

1. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients.
2. Gradually add 1 cup of warm water, mixing as you go.
3. Continue to add water gradually as needed, based on the type of flour you are using. The goal is to create a dough that comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

1. Once the dough has formed, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
   • Tip: If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 5: Allow the Dough to Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl.
2. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Bread

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air.
2. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 8-10, depending on your preferred size).
3. Shape each piece into a round ball or flatten it slightly, depending on your desired thickness.

Step 7: Cook the Bread

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place the shaped dough onto the hot skillet.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Tip: You can press the bread with a spatula to help it cook evenly.

Conclusion

You have now made authentic Egyptian Balady Bread! This bread is perfect for serving with dips, stews, or as a wrap for various fillings. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings, and consider trying out other traditional Egyptian recipes to further explore this rich cuisine. Happy cooking!