In many Middle Eastern and North African kitchens, fatir—a buttery, multi-layered flatbread—is baked for gatherings, celebrations, and ritual meals. This version reimagines that experience through a modern healing lens.
Instead of butter, we use roasted sweet potato mash—its silky richness adding depth without heaviness. Cassava flour brings structure and a pliable texture that mimics the stretch and give of traditional dough. The result is a soft, golden round that’s both humble and head-turning.
Every fold, every layer, whispers of care. This is a bread you feel more than you follow.
Ingredients
Cassava Dough
- 1 1/2 cups cassava flour
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
Sweet Potato Layer
- 1/2 cup roasted sweet potato mash (orange-fleshed for best results)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1/4 tsp caraway, cinnamon, or a mix for aromatic depth
Method
- Make the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk cassava flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Knead briefly, then cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Whip the Mash
- In a small bowl, combine sweet potato mash, salt, and optional spice. Stir until velvety and spreadable.
- Roll & Layer
- Divide dough into four balls. Roll each one between parchment into a thin round.
- On the first round, spread a light layer of mash. Add a second round on top. Repeat until you have four stacked, alternating layers. Gently press to adhere.
- Fold the edges inward to shape into a domed disc or rustic round. Flatten slightly.
- Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the layered disc to a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes more, until golden with slightly crisp edges.
- Cool & Pull Apart
- Let cool 10 minutes. Pull sections gently by hand, or slice and serve warm.
Serving Ideas
- Savory: Dip into herbed squash purée or a garlicky tomato mash.
- Sweet (PM only): Serve with apple-date paste, or warm mashed figs.
Kitchen Notes
- Cassava mimics stretch when kneaded briefly—don’t skip the rest time.
- Sweet potato mash holds moisture and flavor through baking, eliminating the need for oils.
- For extra texture and visual interest, sprinkle caraway or black sesame between layers.
This isn’t a shortcut—it’s a homage. A slow, intentional layering of the old and new. One that tastes like comfort, tears like tradition, and nourishes like medicine.
