Bread Story
Barbari is one of Persia's most famous breads, known for its long oval shape, soft chewy centre and beautifully golden crust. Finished with a traditional flour glaze and sprinkled with sesame seeds, it's perfect alongside kebabs, grilled chicken, stews or simply torn apart while still warm with butter.
You’ll Need
Makes 2 large loaves
For the Dough
500g strong white bread flour
7g fast-action dried yeast
1 tsp caster sugar
2 tsp sea salt
320ml warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
Traditional Flour Glaze
1 tbsp plain flour
80ml water
Topping
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tsp nigella seeds (optional)
Optional but Dangerous
Salted butter
Feta cheese
Grilled lamb kebabs
Hummus
Fresh herbs
Method
Combine the flour, yeast, sugar and sea salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and leave to rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, make the glaze by whisking the flour and water together in a small saucepan. Heat gently until it
thickens slightly, then allow it to cool.
Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Shape each into a long oval approximately 30cm long and place onto baking paper.
Leave to prove for another 30 minutes.
Brush each loaf generously with the cooled flour glaze.
Using your fingertips, press four or five long grooves lengthways through each loaf, creating the traditional
Barbari pattern.
Sprinkle over the sesame seeds and nigella seeds.
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
Air fry one loaf at a time for 16–20 minutes, until beautifully golden with a crisp crust and soft, chewy centre.
Leave to cool slightly before slicing or tearing into generous pieces.