Lebanese Kaak (Lebanese Street Bread)

Kaak, often referred to as Lebanese street bread, is a beloved staple in Lebanon. Found in bustling markets or from street vendors on nearly every corner, this sesame studded bread offers a taste of home and nostalgia for many.

The dough is baked into a distinctive ring shape, with a hollow centre perfect for holding fillings, and it’s enjoyed as a quick snack or a light meal.

What Is Kaak?

Kaak is a versatile Lebanese bread traditionally sold by street vendors and often enjoyed as a grab-and go snack. It’s typically oval or ring-shaped, with a slightly chewy texture and a crisp exterior that’s coated in sesame seeds.

What sets Kaak apart from other types of bread is its unique design, a large pocket that can be filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, za’atar (a spice blend), or even meats. Some prefer to eat it plain, letting the sesame seeds and olive oil do all the talking.

Ingredients and Taste

Kaak is made with basic bread ingredients: flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt. What makes it stand out is the generous sprinkling of sesame seeds on top and, often, a subtle infusion of olive oil within the dough itself.

The sesame adds a slightly nutty flavour that complements the soft, mildly tangy taste of the bread. Sometimes, vendors will fill the bread with labneh (a tangy yogurt cheese) or za’atar, which gives it an aromatic and herbal kick. The dough itself is light and airy, making it a satisfying snack without feeling too heavy.

When you take a bite of Kaak, the first thing you’ll notice is the crunch of the sesame seeds and the slight crispness of the crust. As you chew, the interior is soft and almost melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of textures.

It’s a simple yet flavourful bread that pairs well with an array of traditional Lebanese ingredients.

A Taste of History 

Kaak has deep roots in Lebanon’s street food culture, with its origins believed to date back centuries. The word “kaak” in Arabic refers to a type of bread, and this style of Kaak is closely associated with Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Traditionally, Kaak was baked and sold by street vendors, carried on wooden carts or large trays balanced on their heads. The bread became a convenient meal for people on the go, especially in busy urban centres like Beirut.