Arabic Bread (Khoboz Araby)

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 teaspoon of yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1-1 1/4 cups of lukewarm water (40-45 c)
• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup cornmeal

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Step By Step

1. Dissolve yeast and sugar in 1/2 cup warm water, and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes.
2. In a deep bowl, combine the flour, and salt, making a well in the center.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture, the oil, and 3/4 cup water.
4. Using your hand, gently blend the ingredients in the liquid.
5. Continue mixing and kneading in the bowl for about 10 minutes until a smooth dough results.(Add a little more flour or water if necessary).
6. Return the bread to the bowl and cover with a clean dishtowel.
7. Leave to rise in a warm spot until boubled in bulk (2-3 hours).
8. Place the dough on a lightly floured board, and knead with floured hands for 5 minutes.
9. Tear off pieces the size of oranges or grapefruits and roll between cupped hands to form smooth balls.
10. Set aside on a floured cloth. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
11. Preheat oven to 475 F . Sprinkle baking sheets with cornmeal.
12. Using a rolling pin, roll out each piece of dough onto a circle about 0.75 cm thick.
13. Arrange the circles on the baking sheets, cover with a towel and let rise again for 30 minutes.
14. Place sheets in the bottom of the oven, directly on its floor, and let them bake for 5 minutes, until the loaves puff up and are lightly browned, or place under the broiler until browned.