Rooti farmaajo (Honeycomb cheese bread)

A unique, chewy bread with a honeycomb texture, often served with stews or as a snack with tea.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semolina flour
  • 1 tbsp yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for cheesy version)

Preparation (1.5 hours):

  1. Make dough: Mix yeast, sugar, and ¼ cup warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a bowl, combine flours, salt, yeast mixture, remaining water, and oil. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
  2. Rise: Cover and let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
  3. Shape: Divide into 4 balls. Flatten slightly. If using cheese, press mozzarella into the center of each and fold to enclose.
  4. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place dough on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
  5. Serve: Serve warm with stew or tea.