Homemade Jachnun – Yemenite Shabbat Bread – Pareve version

👨‍🍳 Method

For the Dough base

1. 1
   Mix the flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a large bowl.

   Bowl
2. 2
   Add the lukewarm water and Knead about 8 minutes, until the dough is smooth, pliable and doesn't stick to your hands.

   ⚙ KneadingBowlStand mixer

   💡For yeast dough, use the windowpane test: a small piece stretches into a thin, translucent sheet without tearing, and that's the sign the kneading is done. Add flour only by the tablespoon, and only if the dough is still sticky after a few minutes: too much flour makes a tough dough.
3. 3
   Cover and Let rise 30 minutes in a warm place, until the dough doubles in size.

   ⚙ ProofingPlastic wraporKitchen towel

   💡Let rise in a warm, draft-free spot. The dough is ready when it has doubled, and a gentle finger press leaves a dent that fills back slowly; if it springs right back, wait longer.

To assemble

1. 4
   Divide the dough into 6 balls and roll each ball into a circle very thin on a work surface greased, until the dough is almost see-through.

   ⚙ Dividing into Balls and RollingRolling pin

   💡Dough that springs back needs rest: cover the balls for 10 minutes and the gluten relaxes.
2. 5
   Spread the margarine over each sheet.
3. 6
   Fold each sheet in thirds lengthwise and roll into a tight log.
4. 7
   Spread the oil in a deep pan and arrange the rolls in it.

   Baking pan
5. 8
   Cover with parchment paper and foil and bake at 110°C (230°F) overnight (7–8 hours).

   Parchment paperAluminum foilOvenBaking pan

   💡The low heat and tight cover bake the jachnun slowly in its own steam: it browns and caramelizes outside and stays soft in layers.
6. 9
   Serve hot with crushed tomatoes and a hard-boiled egg.