Fattah with Yogurt
Fattah b'Laban
A classic Egyptian dish featuring layers of toasted bread, fluffy rice, and a tangy garlic-infused yogurt sauce, often garnished with crispy pine nuts. This version highlights the refreshing tang of the yogurt.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 rounds Egyptian flatbread (Aish Baladi or similar)
- 300 g Medium-grain rice
- 500 g Plain yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 6 cloves Garlic
- 50 g Pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil or Ghee
- 600 ml Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 600ml of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Let it steam, covered, off the heat for another 5 minutes.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
Toast the Bread: While the rice cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the torn bread pieces and fry, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove the toasted bread with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt and minced garlic. Whisk vigorously until smooth and well combined. Season with a pinch of salt if desired. For a smoother sauce, you can gently warm it slightly in a small saucepan over very low heat, stirring constantly, but do not boil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Toast the Pine Nuts: In a small dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful, as they can burn quickly. Set aside.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Assemble the Fattah: In a large serving bowl, spread the toasted bread pieces evenly on the bottom. Top the bread with the cooked rice, spreading it into a uniform layer. Gently pour the garlic yogurt sauce over the rice, ensuring it covers the surface. Garnish generously with the toasted pine nuts.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The tanginess of the dish comes from the yogurt; use a good quality, thick plain yogurt for best results.
- ✓Toasting the pine nuts adds a lovely nutty aroma and crunch. Watch them closely as they toast very quickly.
- ✓This dish has roots in Levantine cuisine and is a staple in many Middle Eastern countries with regional variations.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add shredded or diced cooked meat (like lamb or chicken) on top of the rice layer.
- Increase the amount of garlic for a more pungent flavor.
- A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of paprika can add a touch of heat and color.