Jachnun, the beloved pastry of Yemeni-Jewish cuisine, is a delicious and aromatic treat that is an essential part of Shabbat mornings in Jewish households. As the warm and inviting aroma of freshly baked Jachnun fills the air, families gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the arrival of this delectable dish.
Traditionally, Jachnun is prepared by rolling dough into thin layers, coating it with clarified butter, and then baking it slowly for hours until it turns a rich golden brown. Served with fresh tomato dip, crushed chili paste, and a hard-boiled egg, Jachnun is a savory and satisfying breakfast that will leave you feeling energized and ready for a day of rest and reflection.
Here’s a recipe for homemade Jachnun that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
4 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tsp of salt
1/2 cup of vegetable oil
1/2 cup of clarified butter
1/4 cup of honey
1 tsp of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
Add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a thin, rectangular shape.
Brush each layer with clarified butter and fold it in half twice, creating a long, thin strip.
Place each strip on a baking sheet and brush with honey and more clarified butter.
Bake for 4-6 hours until the Jachnun is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve hot with fresh tomato dip, crushed chili paste, and a hard-boiled egg.
Enjoy your homemade Jachnun and savor the flavors and aromas of this beloved dish. Shabbat Shalom!
