Barbari Bread: The Easiest Way to Make It at Home

Barbari bread is one of the oldest and most popular Iranian breads that has had a special place on the table of Iranian households for many years. Its elongated appearance, semi-hard texture, toasted top, and delicious taste have made this bread known not only in Iran but also in many countries. Barbari has been commonly eaten for breakfast with cream, cheese, walnuts, and vegetables from the past to the present, and due to its special texture and attractive shape, it can also be used for a variety of meals.

Barbari was baked by the “Barbar” people in the northeast of Iran in the past, which is why it became known by this name. Today, this bread is prepared in all cities of Iran with different methods, but the main principles of its baking are still the same traditional method. Barbari bread, like Taftoon bread and Sangak bread, is very famous in Iran and has many fans.

What is Barbari bread?

Unlike many thin Iranian breads, Barbari bread is thicker and therefore has a softer texture. This bread usually has indentations on its surface, which are made with a special tool or fingertips, and help the bread bake evenly.

One of the attractive features of Barbari is the use of “animal or sesame oil” in the baking process, which makes the top of the bread shiny and golden.

Ingredients for making homemade Barbari bread (4 medium loaves)

To make Iranian bread, you must use high-quality flour to prepare tasty and long-lasting bread.

How to make Barbari bread (step by step)

1. Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, mix the sugar and yeast with a little lukewarm water and let it sit for 10 minutes to foam. This step is very important for the bread to puff up better.

2. Prepare the main dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast and oil mixture. Then, gradually pour in the water and knead the dough well for about 10 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth.

3. Rest the dough

Cover the bowl with a cloth or cellophane and place it in a warm place until the dough doubles in size. Usually, 45 to 60 minutes is enough.

4. Shape the bread

Divide the dough into 4 parts. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into an oval and elongated shape. Then, with your fingers, create the famous Berber indentations.

5. Prepare the napkin

A napkin is very important for the bread to be crispy and shiny. Place the mixture of water, flour, and a little baking soda on low heat, and after a minute, apply it to the bread.

6. Bake the bread

Preheat the baking tray. Then place the loaves on a hot tray and bake in a 250-degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes. If desired, turn on the grill for the last few minutes to make the bread golden.

Traditional Iranian Barbari Bread (4 Loaves)

Authentic Persian Barbari bread, known for its golden crust, fluffy texture, and iconic ridges. This homemade version gives you the same bakery-style aroma and taste using simple ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or served alongside Persian stews, kebabs, cheese, and fresh herbs.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 pieces

Course: Bread, Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Persian

Calories: 220

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups all-purpose or semi-whole-wheat flour
• 1.5 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
• Sesame or black seeds optional
• For the Roomal Surface Glaze
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 cup water
• A pinch of baking soda

Method

 

1. Activate the Yeast
2. Mix sugar, yeast, and a little warm water. Let it foam for 10 minutes.
3. Prepare the Dough
4. Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and oil. Gradually add water and knead 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Rest the Dough
6. Cover and let rise for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Bread
8. Divide into 4 pieces. Shape each into an oval/elongated form. Use fingers to create Barbari grooves.
9. Prepare the Roomal
10. Mix flour, water, and baking soda. Cook 1 minute until slightly thickened. Brush over the bread.
11. Bake
12. Preheat tray at 250 C (480 F).
13. Bake 8-10 minutes.
14. Turn on broiler for 1-2 minutes for golden color.

Golden Tips for Baking Barbari Bread

• Using semi-whole wheat flour multiplies the nutritional value of Barbari.
• The more you knead the dough, the better and more airy the bread will be.
• To create a more voluminous texture, you can add a little yogurt or milk.
• A napkin should be placed on the bread before baking so that the crust of the bread does not crack.

Baking Barbari on a stone or cast-iron tray creates the flavor of bakery breads.

Benefits of Barbari Bread for the Body

1. Rich in Fiber

If made with whole wheat flour, Barbari is one of the best sources of fiber for regulating mood, reducing constipation, and improving digestion.

2. Helps control blood sugar

Barberry has a lower glycemic index than completely white bread and raises blood sugar slowly.

3. Sustained energy supplier

The complex carbohydrates in this bread provide the body with continuous energy; it is especially a good option for athletes.

4. Source of B vitamins

These vitamins strengthen nerves, increase energy, and improve the body’s metabolism.

5. Very low fat

Barberry is cooked without oil and is suitable for low-fat diets.

Possible side effects and harms of consuming too much barberry bread

1. High calories

If a large amount of barberry is consumed, especially for people who are not very active, it can cause weight gain.

2. Not suitable for celiac people

This bread contains gluten and is not suitable for celiac patients or gluten sensitivity.

3. Increases blood sugar in large quantities

Even if baked with whole wheat flour, excessive consumption will still raise blood sugar.

4. May cause bloating in some people

Especially if they are allergic to excessive consumption of bran.

How to serve Barbari bread?

• Barbari with cheese and walnuts
• Barbari with cream and honey
• Barbari with vegetables
• With various stews
• With halima, lentils, or nimru

Storage methods

• Best method: In a cloth bag
• For long-term storage: In the freezer
• Never refrigerate; it will dry and harden

Summary

Barbari bread is one of the oldest Iranian breads, which, in addition to its unique taste, has an extraordinary nutritional value. This bread with whole wheat flour becomes a complete, energetic, and very healthy meal and can be served with a variety of dishes from breakfast to dinner. If you are looking for a delicious, nutritious, and completely Iranian bread, barbari is the best option; whether you buy it from a bakery or bake it at home, its taste and aroma are always delightful.

Barbari bread(Wikipedia)

Frequently Asked Questions About Barbari Bread

1. What is Barbari bread made of?

Barbari bread is traditionally made from flour, water, yeast, salt, and a special “roomal” mixture (water + flour) that gives the crust its shine. Some versions include sesame seeds for extra flavor.

2. Is Barbari bread healthy?

Yes, especially when made with whole wheat flour. It contains fiber, B vitamins, and slow-digesting carbs that provide long-lasting energy.

3. Why does Barbari bread have lines on top?

The long indentations are created with fingers or a special tool to help the bread bake evenly and achieve its classic texture.

4. Can I make Barbari bread at home without a special oven?

Absolutely. A regular home oven at high heat (around 250 C / 480 F) can produce excellent results, especially if you use a preheated tray or baking stone.

5. What is the best way to store Barbari bread?

Keep it in a cloth bag for daily use. For longer storage, freeze it and reheat in a pan or oven. Avoid the refrigerator because it makes the bread dry and hard.