Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
DINNER
Azerbaijani Pumpkin Gutab with Pomegranate Molasses
These savory-sweet Azerbaijani gutab are thin, crescent-shaped flatbreads filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture and drizzled with tangy pomegranate molasses. They make a delightful and unique dinner.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
02
While the dough rests, prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to combine.
03
Divide the rested dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
04
Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a crescent shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure a tight seal.
05
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the gutab in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Add more oil as needed for subsequent batches.
06
Once cooked, transfer the gutab to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with pomegranate molasses before serving.
About This Recipe
These savory-sweet Azerbaijani gutab are thin, crescent-shaped flatbreads filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture and drizzled with tangy pomegranate molasses. They make a delightful and unique dinner.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
Ensure your dough is rolled very thin for the best texture. If the dough is too thick, the gutab will be chewy rather than tender. Don't overfill the gutab, as this can make them difficult to seal.
Easy Substitutions
Butternut squash can be used instead of pumpkin. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pumpkin filling. If you don't have pomegranate molasses, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can offer a different kind of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gutab in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, or in a microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Azerbaijani Pumpkin Gutab with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream for a cooling contrast. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the gutab. They are also excellent as a standalone snack or light meal.
Common Mistakes
1. Not rolling the dough thin enough: This results in a thick, bready gutab. Roll until almost translucent. 2. Overfilling the gutab: Too much filling makes sealing difficult and can cause leakage during cooking. 3. Cooking on too high heat: This can burn the outside before the dough is cooked through. Use medium heat. 4. Not sealing the edges properly: The filling will escape, making a mess in the pan. Press firmly and crimp with a fork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have fresh pumpkin?
Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just ensure it's 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While traditionally fried, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. They may not be as crispy as fried gutab.
MORE TO KNOW
Gutab are a traditional Azerbaijani flatbread, often filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, or greens. This pumpkin and pomegranate molasses version offers a unique sweet and savory profile, perfect for a comforting meal. The key to perfect gutab is a well-rested, thinly rolled dough and a flavorful filling. The crimped edges not only look appealing but also help prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK
Reviews
☆
No reviews yet
Be the first person to review this recipe.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Made this recipe?
Tell us how it turned out.