Zatar Naan Recipe

Steps to prepare za'atar naan

1. 1

   Activate yeast

   In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110-115°F / 43-46°C) with granulated sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. 2

   Combine dry ingredients

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and kosher salt until evenly distributed.

3. 3

   Mix wet ingredients with yeast

   To the flour, add plain yogurt and olive oil. Pour in the foamy yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

4. 4

   Knead dough

   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, dust with small amounts of flour as needed.

5. 5

   First rise

   Oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 60-90 minutes.

6. 6

   Prepare garlic butter

   Melt the unsalted butter and mix in the minced garlic. This garlic butter will be brushed on the naan before baking.

7. 7

   Divide and rest

   Punch down the risen dough and divide into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and let rest for 5 minutes.

8. 8

   Shape and top

   Roll each ball into an oval about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. Brush lightly with garlic butter, then sprinkle a mixture of za'atar spice blend and sesame seeds on top.

9. 9

   Bake

   Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside. Bake the naan in batches for 4-6 minutes until puffed and blistered. Remove and brush with any remaining garlic butter; drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.

10. 10

    Serve

    Serve warm, optionally brushing with a final touch of olive oil for extra shine and softness.