Captains Barbari Flatbread

Discover the irresistible charm of Captain's Barbari Flatbread, a traditional Persian-inspired bread that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning. This golden flatbread features a pillowy-soft interior and a crisp exterior, thanks to a unique "roomal" (slurry) topping brushed over its dimples and ridges. Infused with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, it’s the perfect canvas for pairing with butter, cheese, or dips. Made with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, yeast, and olive oil, this recipe is a gratifying baking project that transforms your kitchen into a Middle Eastern bakery. With just a few key steps and a preheated baking stone, you’ll enjoy warm, fresh bread in under two hours—a comforting choice for homemade brunches or dinner sides.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:120 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.75 cups Warm water
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 0.25 cups All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 3 tablespoons Sesame seeds
• 0.5 teaspoons Baking soda
• 1 teaspoon All-purpose flour (for slurry)
• 0.5 cup Cold water

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

Add the olive oil, salt, and 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5

While the dough is rising, prepare the 'roomal' (slurry topping). In a small pot, whisk together 0.5 cups cold water, 0.5 teaspoons baking soda, and 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens to the consistency of a paste. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 6

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into an elongated oval, about 12 inches long and 5 inches wide.

Step 7

Transfer the shaped dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover and let rest for 20-30 minutes.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a baking stone or overturned baking sheet inside the oven to heat.

Step 9

Using your fingers, press dimples along the surface of the dough, creating ridges. Brush the cooled roomal evenly over the dough and sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top.

Step 10

Transfer the parchment with the dough onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Repeat with the second portion of dough.

Step 12

Serve warm with butter, cheese, or your favorite dips. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1130.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2312.4

Total Fat 48.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5376.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 402.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.8g	0%
Total Sugars 5.4g
Protein 61.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 93.1mg	0%
Iron 25.9mg	0%
Potassium 719.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.0%

Protein: 10.7%

Carbs: 70.4%