Barbari Bread, also known as Nan-e-Barbari, is a delicious Persian flatbread with a long shape, crispy golden crust, and soft, chewy texture. It is simple yet full of flavor, perfect for pairing with anything from cozy soups to delightful dips and mezes.
It is very easy to make with only a handful of basic ingredients. However, you need to follow a few simple steps to achieve the best results.
Visit Barbari Bread - Persian Flatbread for the full ingredients list with measurements, complete recipe method, helpful notes, and nutritional information.
Ingredients You'll Need
Flour - All-purpose flour works well, but you can add some bread flour to add a bit more chewiness.
Sugar - Just a small amount to activate the yeast and add subtle flavor.
Yeast - I use instant yeast to help the dough rise and add lightness. You can also use fresh yeast but you need to double the amount!
Olive oil - Gives a lovely aroma and a golden color to the bread.
Preparing the Dough for Barbari Bread
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, olive oil, and yeast. Add warm water gradually, stirring to form a sticky dough. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer until it becomes smooth and elastic—this will take about 8–10 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size.
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Shaping the Dough
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, cover it, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Take one ball and gently flatten it into an oval or rectangular shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Each piece should be about 12 inches long and 5 inches wide.
Using your fingers, gently press lines into the dough from top to bottom to create the signature ridges of Barbari bread.
Brush the glaze mixture over the surface, covering the dough evenly. This will help to keep the bread moist and create that golden crust during baking. Sprinkle on sesame seeds and/or nigella seeds.
Second Rise and Baking Barbari Bread
Cover the shaped and topped dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rise for another hour. This second rise helps the bread develop a light, airy texture. Bake the bread for 15–20 minutes or until it turns golden brown with a crisp crust. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary slightly.
To learn more: Barbari Bread - Persian Flatbread
Serving Barbari Bread
SIDES FOR SOUPS AND STEWS
The chewy, crisp crust of Barbari is perfect for dipping into soups, Etli Taze Fasulye - Green Bean Stew with Meat, or Youvetsi - Greek Beef and Orzo Stew.
DIPPING AND SPREADING
Serve Barbari as a side for dips like Turkish Spinach Dip - Ispanak Borani, Greek Fava Recipe - Split Pea Dip, or Homemade Labneh (Yogurt Cheese). Its light texture and chewy bite make it perfect for scooping up all kinds of spreads.
SANDWICHES AND WRAPS
Use Barbari to make hearty sandwiches by filling them with meats, cheeses, veggies, or falafel. Its texture and size are great for holding layers of filling.
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