We’ve always been captivated by the simple yet flavorful world of Jordanian snacks, and our Jordan Crackers Recipe brings that authentic Middle Eastern charm right to your kitchen. Originating from Jordan’s rich culinary heritage these crackers offer a crispy texture infused with aromatic spices that evoke a sense of tradition.
What we love most is how easy it is to whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick treat. Join us as we explore this versatile recipe that’ll add a global twist to your snack game.
Ingredients
As we dive into crafting our Jordan Crackers Recipe, we focus on a selection of fresh, authentic ingredients that capture the crispy texture and aromatic spices rooted in Jordan’s culinary heritage. These components, ordered by how we’ll use them, ensure a straightforward preparation process.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our dough, sifted for a light and airy result.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Added next to help achieve that signature crispiness we love in Jordan Crackers.
- 1 tablespoon za’atar spice: A key Middle Eastern blend for the aromatic flavor—use freshly ground for maximum taste.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces earthy notes, measured precisely to complement the spices without overwhelming.
Wet Ingredients and Add-Ins
- ½ cup olive oil: Incorporated to bind the dough and add a subtle richness, evoking traditional Jordanian oils.
- ¾ cup warm water: Mixed in gradually to form the dough, ensuring it’s just the right consistency for rolling.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Dissolved in the water for even distribution, enhancing the overall savoriness.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top before baking, as they provide a nutty crunch and visual appeal to our final crackers.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Jordan Crackers Recipe seamlessly after assembling the ingredients, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precision and efficiency in mixing, shaping, and baking. These items help achieve the perfect crispy texture and aromatic spices that define this traditional treat.
We suggest gathering the following equipment, organized by their role in the process:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients like flour and spices, and another for wet components such as olive oil and water—to promote even blending without cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard cups (1 cup, ½ cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon) for accurate measurements of ingredients, ensuring the dough’s consistency is just right for that flaky bite.
- Rolling Pin: A sturdy wooden or silicone rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly to about ¼-inch thickness, which is crucial for uniform baking and the signature crispiness of Jordan Crackers.
- Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for even heat distribution, resulting in golden-brown crackers with authentic Middle Eastern flavors.
- Oven: A conventional or convection oven preheated to 375°F, as this temperature optimizes the baking process for a quick 15-20 minutes without over-browning the sesame seeds and za’atar.
- Pastry Brush: An optional but helpful tool for brushing olive oil on the dough before baking, enhancing the crackers’ sheen and flavor infusion.
In our experience, having these tools ready streamlines the recipe and elevates the final product, making it easier to enjoy this versatile snack at gatherings or as a quick treat.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating these crispy Jordan Crackers step by step. Our process ensures perfect texture and authentic Middle Eastern flavors every time.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin, we measure and organize our ingredients for smooth preparation. Start by measuring 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder into a mixing bowl—these form the base of our dough. In another bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of za’atar spice and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin for that aromatic spice blend. For the wet components, measure 1/4 cup of olive oil and 1/2 cup of warm water separately, and set aside 1 teaspoon of sea salt along with 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds for topping. This preparation step streamlines the process and helps achieve the crackers’ signature crunch.
Mix the Dough
We now combine our ingredients to create a cohesive dough. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—all-purpose flour, baking powder, za’atar spice, and ground cumin—until evenly distributed. Gradually add the wet ingredients: pour in the olive oil and warm water while stirring with a spoon or your hands to form a soft, pliable dough. Knead the mixture on a lightly floured surface for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, releasing the enticing aroma of spices that promises flavorful results.
Roll and Cut
With our dough ready, we shape it into the classic cracker form. Divide the dough into two equal portions for easier handling, then roll out each portion on a floured surface using a rolling pin to a thickness of about 1/8 inch—this ensures the crackers bake up thin and crispy. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into 2-inch squares or desired shapes, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the tops with sea salt and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake the Crackers
We bake the crackers to golden perfection, locking in their crispiness and spice. Preheat your oven to 375°F as mentioned earlier, then arrange the cut crackers on the baking sheet with space between them for even heat circulation. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn a golden brown and the crackers emit a fragrant, toasty scent that fills your kitchen. This step transforms the dough into irresistibly crunchy bites that embody Jordan’s culinary heritage.
Cool and Store
After baking, we cool the crackers to maintain their texture and prepare for storage. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the hot crackers to a wire rack to cool completely for about 10 minutes—this prevents sogginess and preserves the crispy exterior. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy fresh flavors later.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we wrap up our guide to crafting delicious Jordan Crackers, let’s focus on make-ahead tips and storage methods to keep these crispy, aromatic treats fresh and flavorful. This ensures you can enjoy their authentic Middle Eastern spices and satisfying crunch whenever the craving hits.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Jordan Crackers ahead of time streamlines your routine, especially for gatherings or quick snacks. We recommend these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the Dough in Advance: After mixing the dry and wet ingredients as outlined earlier, shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors of za’atar and cumin to meld, enhancing the crackers’ aromatic profile.
- Pre-Bake and Freeze: If you prefer to bake first, roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake as directed. Once cooled, freeze the crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months, preserving their golden crispiness for future enjoyment.
Storage Methods
Proper storage is key to maintaining the crackers’ texture and taste. Always cool them completely on a wire rack before storing to prevent sogginess.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight container at room temperature to retain the crispy texture and spicy aroma. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | If your kitchen is humid, refrigerate in an airtight container. This keeps the sesame seeds and sea salt flavors intact, but re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before serving. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | For long-term storage, use freezer bags or containers. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refresh in the oven to restore that fresh-baked crunch we love in our Jordan Crackers. |
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage strategies, you’ll maximize the shelf life of your homemade Jordan Crackers while keeping their vibrant flavors and textures at their best.
Conclusion
We’ve loved bringing this Jordan Crackers recipe to your kitchen as a nod to timeless flavors. It’s more than just a snack—it’s a way to connect with Middle Eastern traditions while adding a fresh twist to your routine.
Give it a go and experiment with your own variations. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your home elevating every gathering with its crisp delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jordan Crackers Recipe?
Jordan Crackers are a crispy snack rooted in Middle Eastern flavors, featuring aromatic spices like za’atar and cumin. This easy recipe draws from Jordan’s culinary heritage, making it perfect for gatherings or quick snacks. It’s versatile and simple to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for Jordan Crackers?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, za’atar spice, and ground cumin, plus wet ones such as olive oil, warm water, sea salt, and sesame seeds. These fresh, authentic components ensure a flavorful, crispy texture for an easy homemade treat.
What equipment is required to make Jordan Crackers?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, a baking sheet with parchment paper, and an oven preheated to 375°F. An optional pastry brush adds sheen. These items help achieve precise mixing, shaping, and baking for efficient preparation.
How do I make Jordan Crackers step by step?
Start by measuring and mixing dry and wet ingredients to form dough. Roll it out evenly, cut into shapes, and bake at 375°F until golden. Cool completely on a rack. This process takes about 30-40 minutes total, resulting in fresh, crispy crackers ready to enjoy.
Can I make Jordan Crackers ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to two days in advance and refrigerate it to enhance flavors. You can also bake and freeze the crackers for up to three months. This makes it convenient for planning ahead without sacrificing taste or texture.
How should I store Jordan Crackers?
Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to two weeks in humid conditions or freeze for up to three months. Proper storage maintains their crispiness and vibrant flavors.