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Kesra

A classic North African semolina flatbread with a golden crust and tender crumb. It is cooked dry on a griddle and pairs well with roasted vegetables or stews.

30 minEasyServes 4280 cal/serving

North AfricanSideStovetopVeganVegetarianHalal-friendlyDairy-FreeEgg-FreeNut-FreeSoy-FreePork-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups fine semolina
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3/4 cup warm water

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine 2 cups fine semolina, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp baking powder.

  2. 2

    Pour in 1/4 cup olive oil and rub it into the dry semolina until it feels like coarse sand.

  3. 3

    Add 3/4 cup warm water gradually, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.

  4. 4

    Divide the dough into equal rounds, roll into flat disks, and prick all over with a fork.

  5. 5

    Cook flatbreads in a dry skillet over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown.

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Questions

What is Kesra?

A classic North African semolina flatbread with a golden crust and tender crumb. It is cooked dry on a griddle and pairs well with roasted vegetables or stews. This reference files it under North African side: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 30 minutes start to finish.

How do I know when Kesra is done?

Go by the cues in the method rather than the clock. Step 5: cook until golden brown.

What can I use instead of baking powder in Kesra?

The entry for Kesra calls for 1/2 tsp baking powder. In its place: For each teaspoon, use a quarter teaspoon of baking soda plus half a teaspoon of cream of tartar.

Can I make Kesra gluten-free?

Yes. The gluten in Kesra is 2 cups fine semolina. Swap the flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend (where it only thickens a sauce, half as much cornstarch also works). Everything else proceeds as written.

Can I freeze Kesra?

It is not a good candidate. Refrigerate what is left of Kesra within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat uncovered in a 400 F oven (or an air fryer) for a few minutes to bring the crust back; the microwave softens it.

Serve it with

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