How to make Fatira (Sweetened Flat bread)
Fatira a traditional Ethiopian flatbread. It's a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. The bread is typically made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and it can be served with honey, butter, or spicy sauces. Its preparation is straightforward, requiring just a few basic steps to transform these humble ingredients into a delicious treat. Once cooked, Fatira can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter (for cooking)
- Honey or sugar (optional, for serving)
- Clarified butter (niter kibbeh) (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add water
- while mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable but not too sticky.
- Knead the Dough
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover it
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Shape the Dough
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Pin each ball into thin circle ball
- On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each ball into a thin circle or oval shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cook the Fatira
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil or melted butter to the pan and spread it evenly.
- Place one rolled-out dough piece into the skillet.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly puffed. Press down with a spatula if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough, adding more oil or butter to the skillet as needed.
- Serve
- Serve the Fatira warm. You can drizzle it with honey or sprinkle it with sugar for a sweet version.
- For a savory option, you can spread some clarified butter (niter kibbeh) or honey over the Fatira. Fatira can also be served with spicy sauces or stews, depending on your preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough if you prefer a sweeter Fatira.
- Fatira is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them in a skillet or oven.
- Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a different flavor profile of Ethiopian cuisine. Enjoy it as part of a traditional meal or as a standalone treat! whether as a comforting breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even as a sweet dessert. Its mild flavor and soft texture make it the perfect canvas for a range of accompaniments, from a drizzle of honey or butter for a touch of sweetness to spicy sauces for those craving a bit of heat. No matter how it's served, Fatira brings people together, evoking a sense of warmth and community that is as nourishing as the bread itself.