Description
These fragrant, spiced buns are inspired by the Middle Eastern flavors of za’atar and olive oil, combining the softness of bread with the aromatic kick of thyme, sesame seeds, and marjoram. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or paired with a mezze spread.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 800g plain flour (may need up to 1kg, depending on humidity)
- 25g caster sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 21g (3 sachets) easy-bake yeast or 45g fresh yeast
- 100g butter, melted
- 400ml warm milk
- 2 eggs
For the Filling and Finishing:
- 150ml olive oil
- 175g za’atar
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 50g sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs.
- Gradually stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix to form a dough.
- Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and springy. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky, but avoid over-flouring.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place it in an oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and let it rise in a warm place for about 25 minutes.
- Roll and Fill:
- Lightly flour a work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle, roughly 50 x 25 cm.
- Mix the olive oil and za’atar in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Shape the Buns:
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log to form a “giant sausage.”
- Cut the roll into 2 cm slices to make about 20 rounds.
- Place the rolls, swirly cut-side up, in a 33 x 22 cm roasting tin lined with baking parchment. Leave some space between each roll to allow for rising.
- Rise and Bake:
- Brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Cover loosely and let rise for another 15 minutes to increase volume.
- Preheat the oven to 210°C (410°F), or gas mark 6½.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the buns from the tin and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with fresh tomatoes, labneh, and feta cheese.
Notes
- Customize the Filling: Add shredded cheese, minced garlic, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for variety.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the buns in an airtight bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 180°C (350°F) until warm.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg