Kaák Al Quds- Palistenian Bagels

What Makes Ka'ak Al-Quds Special?

Ka'ak Al-Quds is more than just a bagel; it's a piece of Palestinian heritage. Often sold by street vendors in Jerusalem, these bagels are celebrated for their unique oval shape and nutty sesame flavor. They're a symbol of hospitality and tradition, making them a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Join us as we explore this delicious and historical bread!

Kaak al-Quds is a very popular breakfast item but it can definitely be enjoyed at any time of the day. It tastes similar to a regular bagel but with so much more flavor and texture from the toasted sesame seeds. It has a crunch on the exterior from the sesame seeds but then it’s still so soft and fluffy in the center.Traditionally, they are baked in wood-fired ovens, giving them a unique texture and flavor. The bread is usually enjoyed fresh, with a dip of olive oil and zaatar, capturing the essence of Palestinian culinary traditions.

Ingredients-

You only need a few basic pantry staples to make this bread at home

• Milk

• Water

• Yeast

• Sugar

• Flour

• Salt

• Olive oil

• Baking powder

• Sesame seeds (toasted or untoasted)

Instructions-

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Begin by combining milk and water at room temperature in a bowl. Add the yeast and sugar, stirring well to dissolve. This step allows the yeast to activate, creating a frothy mixture that will help the dough rise. If you are using fast-action yeast, you can skip this step and add the yeast directly to the dry ingredients later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients with the wet thoroughly to ensure an even distribution. Once mixed, cover the bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to absorb some moisture, making the dough easier to knead later.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

After the dry ingredients have rested, add the yeast mixture to the bowl. Begin kneading the dough by hand for about 5 minutes until it starts to come together. At this point, add the olive oil and continue kneading. The dough will become smooth and elastic, a sign that it’s ready for the next step. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to simplify this process.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, ensuring it’s evenly coated to prevent sticking. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. This rising period is crucial for developing the dough’s texture and flavour

Step 5: Shape the Ka'ak Al-Quds

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air. Divide the dough into four equal parts and shape each part into a ball. To form the characteristic shape of Ka'ak Al-Quds, make a hole in the center of each ball and elongate it into an oval. This distinctive oval shape sets them apart from traditional round bagels.

Step 6: Add the Sesame Seeds

Dip each shaped piece of dough in milk, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, roll each piece in sesame seeds, covering the surface generously. Arrange the sesame-coated dough on a baking tray, spacing them out to allow room for expansion during baking.

Step 7: Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 210 degrees Celsius (410 degrees Fahrenheit). While the oven is heating, let the dough rest on the tray. This short resting period helps the dough settle and ensures even baking. Once the oven is ready, bake the Ka'ak Al-Quds for 12-15 minutes, or until they develop a crusty, golden-brown exterior.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, allow the Ka'ak Al-Quds to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling period ensures they firm up and are easier to slice. Enjoy these delicious sesame bagels with your favorite toppings—dip them in olive oil and zaatar for a savory treat or spread with cream cheese and drizzle with honey for a sweet delight. Enjoy the flavors and the rich history of Ka'ak Al-Quds!

Hope you try the recipe and like it . If you like my recipe do share it with me on my instagram (@krustandfrost).

Hi!! My name is Maleeha ,  your passionate host and fellow food enthusiast, and I'm thrilled to take you on a delectable journey through the world of baking, cooking, and dessert-making