Feteer Meshaltet

Story behind the dish

In the bustling street markets of Egypt, there's a warm, flaky bread called Feteer Meshaltet that has long been a favorite comfort food. Its layers of buttery goodness and crispy crunch tell stories of generations gathering around tables, sharing hearty bites and lively conversations. Making this dish at home is a delightful journey — a blend of simple ingredients transformed into a golden masterpiece that beckons with its irresistible aroma and tender, flaky layers.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (about 18 oz)
• 1 1/2 cups water (about 12 fl oz)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (about 8 oz)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (about 2 fl oz)

Step-by-step

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in 1 cup of water and begin kneading until a dough forms.
2. Gradually add more water, if needed, a little at a time, until the dough becomes very elastic and pliable, so much so that it can be stretched without tearing.
3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Divide the rested dough into 6 to 8 equal balls, depending on your preferred size.
5. Warm the butter and olive oil together until melted, then pour into a deep bowl.
6. Immerse each dough ball into the warm butter mixture, letting it rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 550°F (290°C).
8. Take the first ball and gently stretch it on a clean countertop, aiming for a paper-thin layer through which you can see the surface beneath.
9. Fold the stretched dough over itself, brushing butter mixture between each fold to build layers. Set aside.
10. Repeat the stretching and folding process with the next ball, layering it over the previous one, and brushing with butter as you fold.
11. Continue this process with all the dough balls, creating a multilayered, folded dough strip.
12. Lay the assembled dough in a 10-inch baking dish with the seam side down. Brush the top generously with butter.
13. Repeat the process to make a second identical layer if desired.
14. Lightly press the layered dough with your hands to spread it evenly across the dish.
15. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. When the feteer begins to puff, turn on the broiler to brown the top beautifully.
16. Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven. Dot the top with a little more butter, then cover to keep moist before serving.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For a special touch, serve your Feteer Meshaltet with honey, jam, or a side of fresh cheese.
• Warm it slightly before serving to enhance its melt-in-your-mouth texture and crispy layers.

Closing thoughts

There’s something magical about turning a handful of simple ingredients into a golden, flaky delight that fills your home with the scent of comfort. Feteer Meshaltet is more than just bread — it’s a celebration of tradition, patience, and love layered into every crispy fold. Share this homemade version with family or friends and create new memories around its warm, flaky charm.