Khubz Traditional White Bread from Libya

Libyan Khubz bread is usually paired with stews or dips such as hummus or baba ghanoush.

Bread is a staple food in Libya and holds significant cultural and historical importance. In Libya, bread symbolizes hospitality and generosity, and it is often offered to guests as a welcoming gesture. Libyan bread, or khubz, is typically made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and it is usually baked in a brick oven or on a hot surface. 

Bread is a staple food that is consumed at almost every meal in Libya, and it is used to scoop up stews, dips, and other dishes. In addition to its cultural significance, bread is also important in Libya because it is an affordable and accessible source of nutrition for many people.

Khobz or Khubz? Both spellings of the traditional Libyan bread recipe are correct. Khobz is the spelling used in some North African countries, while Khubz is the spelling used in other countries such as Libya, Syria, and Iraq. The difference in spelling is mainly due to variations in the Arabic language dialects spoken in these regions.

Libyan Khubz Traditional Bread Recipe.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water

2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast together.

Add the warm water and olive oil to the bowl, and mix until the ingredients are well combined.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Punch down the dough and knead it for a few more minutes. Divide the dough into six equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.

Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.

Place the discs on a greased baking sheet and let them rise for about 20 minutes.

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Libyan Khubz bread is typically served with stews or dips such as hummus or baba ghanoush.

Ghanoush, also known as baba ghanoush, is a popular Libyan dish made from mashed cooked eggplant, mixed with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and other seasonings. The term ghanoush or ghannoush is of Arabic origin, and it refers to something that is pampered or spoiled. This is believed to refer to the delicate texture and flavor of the dish.