Flatbread (Bahraini Khubz Arabi)

Bahrain Khubz is a really fun bread to make. It actually puffs up in the oven to make a pocket similar to a pita bread. It is delicious straight out of the oven. Use it to dip into baba ghanoush for a real treat. This bread takes a bit of time but well worth the effort.

1½ cups water, warm
1 (¼ oz) pkg active dry yeast
1½ tsp. sea salt
3 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached, sifted
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

In a large bowl, pour in the warm water and add in the yeast, stir until the yeast is dissolved.

Add in the salt.

Start gradually adding in the flour and oil while kneading, you want to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Put the dough into a large greased bowl and turn dough to grease all sides.

Cover with a dry tea towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size about 1½ hours.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C, Gas Mark 5). Grease a baking sheet.

Punch dough gently. Divide into 12 equal portions and shape them into smooth balls. Place on a floured work surface and dust tops lightly with flour. Cover with a dry tea towel and let rest for 15 minutes.

Roll out each ball into a 6" diameter circle and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread puffs. Do not leave unattended while baking.

Makes 6 servings.