Lavash Crackers

Experience the art of crafting Lavash Crackers, a delightful treat characterized by a unique blend of nuttiness and subtle sweetness. These crackers feature a crispy and airy texture, making them perfect for enjoying with a spread of goat cheese or as a standalone snack. The secret lies in the careful combination of three distinct flours: semolina, whole-wheat, and all-purpose. This blend creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that sets Lavash Crackers apart. The dough-making process involves a stand mixer, gradually incorporating water and olive oil until achieving a smooth and elastic consistency. After a resting period, the dough is rolled out onto oiled baking sheets, pierced with a fork to prevent air bubbles, brushed with beaten egg, and adorned with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, kosher salt, and pepper. Baking the crackers to a rich golden brown results in sheets that can be easily broken into crispy, crunchy crackers.

MAKES ABOUT 1 POUND, SERVES 6 TO 8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1½ cups (8⅝ ounces) semolina flour
• ¾ cup (4⅛ ounces) whole-wheat flour
• ¾ cup (3¾ ounces) all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix the three flours and salt on low speed. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, typically 7 to 9 minutes.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter and knead it by hand, forming a smooth, round ball. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces, brush them with oil, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
3. Adjust the oven racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions and preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat two 18 by 13-inch rimless (or inverted) baking sheets with vegetable oil spray.
4. Work with one piece of dough at a time (keep the remaining dough covered with plastic). Press the dough into a small rectangle and transfer it to one of the prepared sheets. Roll and stretch the dough evenly to the edges of the sheet using a rolling pin and your hands.
5. Use a fork to poke holes in the dough at 2-inch intervals. Repeat this process with the second piece of dough on the second prepared sheet.
6. Brush both doughs with the beaten egg, then sprinkle them evenly with sesame seeds, kosher salt, and coarsely ground pepper. Gently press the seasonings to help them adhere.
7. Bake the crackers until they achieve a deep golden brown color, which usually takes around 15 to 18 minutes. Halfway through baking, switch and rotate the baking sheets for even browning.
8. Transfer the baked crackers to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. Let the baking sheets also cool before moving on to rolling out and baking the remaining dough.
9. Break the cooled lavash into large crackers for serving. Lavash can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, ensuring you have a delightful snack ready whenever cravings arise.

TIPS:

• Flour Fusion: The trio of semolina flour, whole-wheat flour, and all-purpose flour brings depth and balance to the crackers. Their combination is essential for achieving the desired flavor and texture.
• Dough Resting: Allowing the dough to rest for an hour after kneading improves its pliability and ease of rolling, leading to consistently thin and crispy crackers.
• Rolling Technique: Roll each piece of dough into a small rectangle, then stretch and roll it evenly to the edges of the baking sheet. Consistency in thickness is crucial for even baking.
• Preventing Air Bubbles: Prick the dough with a fork at 2-inch intervals before baking to prevent unsightly air bubbles from forming.
• Seasoning Adherence: Brush the dough with a beaten egg, then sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds, kosher salt, and coarsely ground pepper. Gently press the seasonings to ensure they adhere.
• Baking Considerations: Position the oven racks in the upper-middle and lower-middle positions to achieve even browning. Rotate and switch the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure uniform results.
• Cooling and Breaking: Allow the baked crackers to cool completely on a wire rack before breaking them into individual pieces. This ensures crispiness and avoids breakage.

Indulge in the delightful allure of Lavash Crackers, a savory treat that combines a rich blend of flours with a delicate crunch. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with creamy cheeses, these homemade crackers offer a taste of artisanal delight. Embrace the process of creating these crackers from scratch, and treat yourself to the rewarding experience of crafting a delectable snack that’s sure to please.