Platter with three Sbaayad Breads



Lefse Griddle This 16 inch Lefse griddle was used for the example breads, and could easily handle three at a time. In Africa, it would probably made on a Tava, a circular sheet of iron over a wood fire, but that takes a lot of experience to get the temperatures right. A regular 12 inch iron skillet would work if well seasoned, or a heavy non-stick pan of similar size. The cover is not used for this bread. I suggest you have an Infrared Thermometer for accurate temperature control. For details on the photo pan see our Lefse Griddle page.

Oxo Silicone Turners To safely handle this bread, you should use a wide turner like the Oxo examples in the photo to the left. I use the wide one, but this bread is quite durable, so the narrow one would work. If not using a non-stick pan, you can use plain metal turners.

Dough ready to be kneaded This dough has been fully mixed in a large pan, and is now on the board ready for kneading to begin. Weighs about 2-1/2 pounds, it can be handled without sticking. Kneading will take 15 minutes by hand, or about 5 minutes in a powerful stand mixer with a dough hook.

Dough cut into 8 pieces Here the Dough, after completion of the kneading step, has been cut into 8 pieces of about the same size.

Dough formed into 8 balls Here the 8 pieces of Dough, have been formed into balls and are ready to be rolled out.

Dough rolled out Dough rolled out to about 1/4 inch thick and 9 inches long.

Brushing top surface with Oil Brushing the top surface with oil.

Dough folded twice Dough, folded in half once, oiled again on top, and folded in half again.

Dough rolled out 1/4 inch thick Folded Dough, rolled out to 1/4 inch thick.

Dough folded again and rolled out I wasn't happy with the elongated shape, so I oiled the top again, folded again, and rolled out again.

Sabaayad on the Griddle Here are three Sabaayad on the griddle. Note that the top layer is puffed up, so they are ready to turn over.