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Delicious Yemeni Bint Al-Sahn Honey Butter Bread Layers with Nigella Seeds

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A traditional Yemeni layered honey butter bread known for its flaky texture and sweet honey finish, sprinkled with aromatic nigella seeds. This recipe is approachable yet impressive, perfect for sharing and enjoying warm.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tsp (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (120ml) honey
  • 2 tbsp (about 20g) nigella seeds
  • Optional: pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with 1 tbsp sugar and 2 tsp active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be tacky but not sticky.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Divide and rest: Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal balls (about 130g each). Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
  6. Roll out layers: On a floured surface, roll each ball into a very thin circle (about 8 inches diameter). Brush each layer generously with melted butter and sprinkle with a pinch of nigella seeds.
  7. Stack and cook: Stack the layers one on top of the other, keeping butter and nigella seeds between each. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the stack for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and crisp, pressing gently with a spatula.
  8. Honey drizzle: Remove from skillet and immediately pour ½ cup honey over the top, letting it soak in.
  9. Serve warm: Slice into wedges and enjoy while still warm.

Notes

If the dough tears while rolling, patch with extra flour and reseal. Use warm but not hot melted butter to avoid cooking the dough prematurely. Cook on medium heat to prevent burning and flip only when one side is golden and set. Pour honey immediately after cooking while bread is hot for best absorption. Dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bint Al-Sahn, Yemeni bread, honey butter bread, nigella seeds, layered bread, traditional Yemeni recipe, flaky bread, easy bread recipe

Find it online: https://crispcraving.com/delicious-yemeni-bint-al-sahn-recipe-easy-honey-butter-bread-layers-with-nigella-seeds/