In the pages of the Bible, bread, a simple yet profound staple, weaves its way through countless stories. From the loaves and fishes to the breaking of bread at the Last Supper, it symbolizes nourishment, community, and divine grace. Inspired by these ancient recipes, we embark on a culinary journey to create a dish that pays homage to these biblical traditions while embracing the flavors of the modern world.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
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For the Filling:
For the Sauce:
Preparation Process:
Make the Bread:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle.
Prepare the Filling:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened.
3. Stir in the parsley, feta cheese, and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
1. Spread the filling evenly over one of the dough rectangles.
2. Top with the second dough rectangle and seal the edges.
3. Cut slits into the top of the dough to allow steam to escape.
4. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the Sauce:
1. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Total Time: 2-3 hours
Serving Ideas:
Serve the bread warm with the yogurt sauce.
Cultural Influences:
This dish is a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. The bread is inspired by traditional flatbreads, while the filling draws from the rich culinary heritage of the Levant. The yogurt sauce is a nod to the Greek and Turkish influence on the region.
As we savor this culinary masterpiece, we are reminded of the enduring power of food to connect us to our cultural roots and to each other. This bread, born from ancient traditions and modern innovation, is a testament to the timeless nature of human creativity and the divine inspiration that fuels it.
