Matnakash Armenian Bread Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Matnakash Armenian Bread Ingredients

Matnakash Armenian Bread Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F), 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast, 2 tsp granulated sugar, and 1 tbsp honey. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. Add 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and 2 tsp fine sea salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add 4 cups bread flour to the bowl, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, adding extra bread flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  5. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Turn it out onto a surface dusted with a mixture of bread flour and semolina flour.
  8. Divide the dough in half for two loaves, or keep whole for one large loaf. Shape each portion into an oval or round, about 1 inch thick, using your hands to gently stretch and flatten the dough.
  9. Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dusted with semolina flour. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 30-40 minutes, until slightly puffy.
  10. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside, if available, for even heat.
  11. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg yolk and 2 tbsp water to make the glaze. Brush the surface of the risen dough with the glaze.
  12. Using your fingertips, press deep grooves lengthwise and crosswise into the dough to create the traditional matnakash pattern, being careful not to deflate the dough.
  13. Sprinkle 1 tsp nigella seeds and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds over the top, if desired.
  14. Carefully slide the prepared dough onto the preheated baking stone or sheet. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  15. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Estimated Calories: 210, Servings: 8

Recommended Dishes

Matnakash Quick Mistake Fixes

A common pitfall with this bread is ending up with a dry or overly dense crumb, which can detract from the best qualities of a freshly baked loaf. When the texture is not right, the bread loses its signature pillowy softness and inviting aroma, making it less delicious and less enjoyable to eat. A good loaf should have a tender, airy interior that tears easily and feels light in the hand. If the bread is dry, it can be a sign that it was baked too long or at too high a temperature, or that not enough moisture was retained during the process. For a healthy and satisfying result, it is important to keep a close eye on the baking time and to ensure the dough is well hydrated before it goes into the oven.
The appearance of this bread is just as important as its flavor and texture. A great loaf should have a golden, slightly glossy crust with well-defined ridges and a rustic, inviting look. If the surface is pale, uneven, or lacks the characteristic sheen, it can make the bread seem less appetizing, even if the flavor is good. The best presentation comes from careful shaping and proper scoring, which allows the loaf to expand beautifully and develop its signature look. A quick brush with water or a light glaze before baking can help achieve that appealing finish, making the bread look as delicious as it tastes.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes can be a fast and easy way to elevate the final product, especially if the dough tastes bland after proofing. A quick sprinkle of sea salt or a light dusting of seeds just before baking can add a burst of flavor and texture, transforming a simple loaf into something truly special. Even a subtle adjustment, like a touch of olive oil brushed on the crust, can enhance aroma and depth, making the bread more complex and satisfying. The best bakers know that these small, thoughtful tweaks can turn a good recipe into a great one, ensuring every bite is both healthy and delicious.

About Matnakash Recipe

If you're searching for the best homemade bread, this Armenian classic is a must-try. The Matnakash recipe is renowned for its delicious, fluffy texture and beautiful golden crust. Using simple ingredients, this authentic bread is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, you'll love how quick and straightforward it is to follow this recipe. With just a few steps, you'll learn how to make a tasty loaf that's perfect for any meal.
One of the secrets to the best Matnakash is using quality ingredients and following a few essential tips. The dough is made with flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt-nothing complicated, just the basics for a truly authentic taste. The unique shaping technique gives this bread its signature look and texture. If you want to know how to make this Armenian favorite, be sure to let the dough rise properly and bake it at the right temperature for that perfect, golden finish.
This Matnakash recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy homemade bread. The result is a delicious, soft, and slightly chewy loaf that pairs well with any dish. With these simple instructions and helpful tips, you'll have the best, most authentic Armenian bread on your table in no time. Try this recipe today and discover just how tasty and satisfying homemade Matnakash can be!

Matnakash Pairings

The best flavors to accompany Matnakash are those that highlight its airy crumb and slightly sweet crust. A good pairing would be a tangy, herbaceous yogurt dip, which brings a refreshing contrast to the bread's warm, toasty aroma. For a quick and easy addition, try a drizzle of olive oil infused with sumac or za'atar, which adds a delicious, earthy brightness. The combination of these flavors creates a healthy and satisfying experience, making every bite of Matnakash feel like a celebration of Armenian tradition.
A great side to serve with Matnakash is a vibrant salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs, dressed with lemon and a touch of garlic. This fast and easy recipe brings a crisp, juicy texture that balances the bread's softness, while the acidity of the vegetables cuts through the richness. For a more substantial meal, roasted eggplant or a platter of assorted Armenian cheeses can be added, offering a delicious and healthy spread that invites sharing and conversation.
For drinks, a good choice would be a glass of chilled tan, the classic Armenian yogurt beverage, which is both refreshing and healthy. Its tangy, slightly salty flavor is the best complement to the bread's subtle sweetness, making for a delicious and easy pairing. If you prefer something with a bit more celebration, a light, aromatic white wine or a quick homemade pomegranate spritzer can elevate the meal, providing a fast and festive touch to your table.

Healthy Matnakash Tips

To boost the health factor of your homemade Matnakash recipe, start by swapping out some of the white flour for whole wheat or spelt flour-this simple tweak adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals without sacrificing that authentic, delicious flavor. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread, now with a nutty undertone and a heartier texture that still delivers the perfect chew. For the best health benefits, use extra-virgin olive oil instead of butter, and consider adding a sprinkle of flax or chia seeds to the dough for an extra punch of omega-3s. These easy, quick changes make your Armenian bread not just tasty, but a powerhouse of nutrition. The result? A Matnakash recipe that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds, with a golden crust and a soft, airy crumb that's simply irresistible.
For even more health, try reducing the salt and using a natural sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast-this authentic approach enhances digestibility and brings out a tangy depth that elevates every bite. The best part is, you're still getting that classic, homemade Matnakash experience, but with a lighter, more wholesome profile. Picture tearing into a warm loaf, the steam rising, the crust crackling, and knowing every ingredient is chosen for both taste and health. With these tips, you'll master how to make a Matnakash recipe that's not only easy and quick, but also the perfect, healthy choice for any meal. Don't just bake bread-bake the best, most health-conscious Armenian bread you've ever tasted!

Matnakash Story

The memory unfolds in the golden light of a late afternoon, the kitchen alive with laughter and the gentle hum of conversation. I recall the anticipation as the aroma drifted through the house, warm and inviting, promising something truly special. There was a sense of occasion, a feeling that this was not just another meal but a celebration of togetherness. The best part was the way everyone gathered around, eager to share in the experience, each of us drawn by the irresistible scent that lingered in the air.
As I close my eyes, I can still feel the texture beneath my fingertips, soft yet substantial, a comforting presence that spoke of home. The first bite was always a revelation, a delicious combination of flavors that seemed both familiar and new. It was a good reminder of how something so easy and fast to prepare could bring such great joy. The recipe itself was a family treasure, passed down with pride, and each time it was made, it felt like a gift from the past, nourishing both body and soul in a healthy, satisfying way.
Even now, years later, the memory remains vivid, colored by the laughter and stories shared around the table. There was a quick exchange of smiles as we savored each mouthful, the simple pleasure of being together heightened by the food before us. It was more than just sustenance; it was a connection to heritage, a reminder that the best moments in life are often the ones that come from sharing something truly special. The lingering taste, the warmth, and the sense of belonging are emotions I carry with me, a delicious echo of childhood that never fades.