Ingredients
For the Bread Dough
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping
- 1 egg yolk, beaten (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (optional)
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon yogurt (for a softer crumb)
- 1 teaspoon honey (instead of sugar)
- A pinch of dried oregano
- A few cloves of roasted garlic
- ¼ cup grated cheese (for a stuffed version)
- A handful of chopped olives
- A sprinkle of za’atar seasoning
- A drizzle of melted butter
- Fresh rosemary leaves
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
Pour the warm water into a small bowl and stir in the sugar and instant yeast. Allow the mixture to rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a rough dough.
3. Knead Until Smooth
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead continuously for about 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and soft.
4. Shape the Dough
Form the dough into a smooth oval or round loaf. Place it on a piece of parchment paper for easier handling.
5. Allow the Dough to Rise
Cover the dough loosely with a clean kitchen towel and leave it in a warm place for approximately 45 minutes, or until it becomes noticeably puffy and nearly doubles in size.
6. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for several minutes before baking.
7. Add the Traditional Finish
Brush the top of the risen dough evenly with the beaten egg yolk. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a classic diamond or crosshatch pattern. Sprinkle sesame seeds and optional nigella seeds over the top.
8. Air Fry the Bread
Carefully place the dough, together with the parchment paper, into the preheated air fryer basket. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bread develops a rich golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool Before Slicing
Remove the bread from the air fryer and place it on a wire cooling rack. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to help the crumb set properly.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 185
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
- B Vitamins: Present from flour and yeast
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients and optional additions used.