Lebanese Sesame Bread Rings (Ka'ak)
Kaak is a traditional Lebanese bread that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for snacking or pairing with dips.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- 2
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of sugar until dissolved. Slowly add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- 3
Add 1/4 cup of olive oil to the dough and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 4
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- 5
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into small balls. Roll each ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- 6
Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds on top, gently pressing them into the dough.
- 7
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the Kaak for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- 8
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively.
Kneading the dough well will result in a better texture.
You can adjust the sesame seed amount based on your preference.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- If desired, freeze the baked Kaak in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Substitutions
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- If you don't have sesame seeds, try poppy seeds or omit them altogether.
What to Serve With
- Hummus
- Baba ghanoush
- Labneh
Common Mistakes
- Not letting the dough rise enough, which leads to dense bread.
- Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast.
- Rolling the dough too thin can cause it to burn easily.
Recipe FAQ
What is Kaak?
Kaak is a traditional Lebanese bread that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Can I store Kaak?
Yes, Kaak can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with Kaak?
Kaak pairs well with dips like hummus or baba ghanoush.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Baking sheet
Useful for roasting, baking, broiling, and sheet-pan prep.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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