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Qutab (Herb Stuffed Flatbread Recipe) - A Taste of Azerbaijan

Updated: Nov 25, 2024

A crispy, herb stuffed flatbread from the Caucausus.

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Azerbaijani Qutab

"The beauty of the people lies in the unity of their hearts and souls, like a single heart pulsating in many bodies." -Nizami Ganjavi


Qutab (also spelled kutab or gutab) is a traditional Azerbaijani dish that consists of thin, unleavened dough filled with a variety of savory fillings. It's often compared to stuffed flatbreads or dumplings due to its form and preparation method. Qutab has been an integral part of Azerbaijani cuisine for centuries, reflecting the region's culinary heritage and cultural diversity.


The history of qutab dates back centuries, intertwined with the history and culture of Azerbaijan. The dish is believed to have its origins in the medieval period when trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road influenced Azerbaijani cuisine. Qutab's preparation technique and ingredients showcase the rich tapestry of flavors and influences that have shaped Azerbaijani food over time.


Qutab comes in different types, each showcasing unique flavors and regional variations. Some popular types include:

  1. Dushbara Qutab: Filled with minced meat and aromatic herbs, similar to dumplings.

  2. Sabzi Qutab: Stuffed with a mixture of herbs, often including spinach, cilantro, and other greens.

  3. Gavalı Qutab: Filled with millet porridge and minced meat.

  4. Kükü Qutab: Features a filling made from eggs and greens, resembling an omelette.

  5. Pumpkin Qutab: Contains a delicious filling of pumpkin, onions, and spices.

Qutab is usually served with yogurt, sour cream, or various sauces. It's often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main course, depending on the occasion and the type of qutab. The dish is also a prominent feature during festive events and celebrations.


Qutab is more than just a culinary delight; it's a reflection of Azerbaijani culture and hospitality. Sharing qutabs with guests is a way of demonstrating warmth and friendship, and it's an integral part of social gatherings.

In essence, qutab embodies the history, diversity, and culinary creativity of Azerbaijan. Its legacy continues to be celebrated by both locals and those who have the opportunity to savor its delicious flavors.


Azerbaijani Sabzi Qutab Recipe

Prep time 45 mins | Cook time 20-30 mins | Serves 4


Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup warm water

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (spinach, cilantro, dill, parsley), finely chopped

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • feta, goat cheese or medium hard sheeps cheese (OPTIONAL)

For Cooking and Serving:

  • Butter or oil for brushing

  • Yogurt or sour cream for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

  2. Remove onions from skillet into a bowl and incorporate all of your fresh herbs, salt and pepper

  3. Mix everything together until homogenous

Assemble and Cook:

  1. Divide the dough into small balls, about golf ball size.

  2. Roll out each dough ball into a thin circle, around 6-7 inches in diameter.

  3. Place a spoonful of the herb filling onto one half of the dough circle. Fold the other half over to create a semi-circle shape. Press the edges to seal the filling inside.

  4. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges of the qutab.

  5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brush it with a bit of oil or butter.

  6. Place the qutab in the skillet and cook until both sides are golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve:

  1. Once cooked, remove the qutabs from the skillet. Brush them with a bit more butter or oil if desired.

  2. Serve the sabzi qutabs warm, along with yogurt or sour cream on the side for dipping.

Sabzi qutab is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so serve them as soon as they're cooked. The combination of flavorful herbs and crispy dough makes them a delicious treat!


If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Pinterest – seeing your creations always makes my day. Let's explore international cuisine together!


If you want to try to make more flavors of Eastern & Central Europe and the Caucasus, check out the links my recipes below.


Eastern Europe

Belarussian Draniki - Crispy and crunchy potato pancakes

Eastern European Christmas Kutya - A traditional wheat berry and dried fruit dish.

Estonian Mulgipuder - A humble potato and wheat porridge topped with bacon

Finnish Lohikeitto - A light and creamy salmon soup

Latvian Auksta Zupa - A kefir and beet summer soup

Lithuanian Cepelinai - A potato dumpling with a rich meat filling

Moldovan Mamaliga cu Branza - A thick and rich polenta dish with dried, fried pork

Russian Shuba - A unique salad of beets, herring, carrots, and potatoes

Transnistrian Eggplant Rolls - Lightly fried and stuffed eggplant

Ukrainian Borsch - A rustic beetroot stew with beef


Caucausus

Armenian Ghapama - A vibrant rice stuffed pumpkin

Azerbaijani Qutab - An herby stuffed flatbread

Georgian Adjarian Khachapuri - A freshly baked cheese boat with lots of character



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