1 Delicious Mutabbaq Recipe (Murtabak).
Mutabbaq: A Savory Treat
Mutabbaq, a popular street food with Middle Eastern roots, is a delightful exploration of textures and flavors. This savory dish features a crispy, pan-fried flatbread filled with a delicious and customizable core.
The Foundation: The Dough
The key to Mutabbaq lies in its dough. Traditionally made with flour, water, oil, and salt, the dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic. Resting allows it to develop a desirable texture, resulting in flaky layers when cooked.
A World of Fillings
Mutabbaq's beauty lies in its versatility. The fillings can be tailored to your preferences, offering something for everyone. Here are some popular options:
• Classic Spiced Meat: A savory combination of ground beef or lamb seasoned with aromatic spices.
• Vegetarian Delight: Lentils, chickpeas, or vegetables like spinach and mushrooms provide a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Incorporate mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the filling for a cheesy twist.
• Egg Extravaganza: Add scrambled eggs or a fried egg for a delightful richness.
Folding and Frying
Once the dough is rested and the filling is prepared, it's time to assemble. The dough is rolled out thinly, filled, and then folded into a pocket. The folded Mutabbaq is pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
The Perfect Bite
Cut the Mutabbaq into wedges or squares and enjoy the interplay of textures and flavors. Traditionally served hot, it's often accompanied by dips like yogurt sauce or chutney for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for Success
• Resting the dough is crucial for flakiness.
• Don't overfill to prevent tearing.
• Prick the Mutabbaq while frying to allow steam to escape and prevent puffing.
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated for a delicious second serving.
Mutabbaq's versatility and ability to please a variety of palates make it a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. So, embark on your own Mutabbaq journey and discover the flavors that tantalize your taste buds!
Relax the dough for at least 30 minutes.
You can even make it ahead and store it covered in the fridge overnight.
Just take it out when you're ready to cook the filling.
Cooking: Use medium-high heat to ensure the mutabbaq cooks through completely while getting nice and crispy.
Leftovers: Store leftover mutabbaq in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes. They'll be warm, but may not be as crispy as fresh.
Green onion hack: Save time by chopping a large bunch of green onions at once. Freeze them in a ziplock bag and grab them whenever your recipe calls for them.