RCI-BR.001.0013.001
Ba'ba Beh Tamur
Iraqi filled pastries Yield: About 48 cheese- or almond-filled pastries; about 30 date-filled pastries.
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Total60 min
Servings4
Difficultyintermediate
Ingredients
- 1 package
- lukewarm water (105 to 115°F)1 cup
- all-purpose flour3 cupssifted
- ½ teaspoon
- 1 teaspoon
- ground fennel1 tablespoon
- (1 stick) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter½ cupmelted
- Cheese1 unitalmond or |date filling (see recipes)
- egg white1 unitbeaten (if using date filling)
- sesame seeds (if using date filling)1 unit
Method
1
Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it proof for about 10 minutes until foamy. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
10 minutes
2
Add the proofed yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
10 minutes
3
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This first rise is essential for developing a light and airy texture.
60 minutes
4
While the dough rises, prepare the date filling by pitting and mashing fresh or softened dates into a smooth, spreadable paste. Season with desired spices such as cardamom or cinnamon if preferred.
10 minutes
5
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a small round or oval shape on a lightly floured surface.
10 minutes
6
Place a small amount of date filling in the center of each dough round, then fold and pinch the edges firmly to seal, shaping each pastry into a smooth ball or crescent. Arrange the filled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
15 minutes
7
Brush the tops of each pastry generously with beaten egg white to achieve a golden, glossy finish during baking. Allow the shaped pastries to rest for 15 minutes before baking.
15 minutes
8
Bake the pastries in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
25 minutes