Baked Zalebieh

Zalebieh is a kind of Middle Eastern doughnut that is usually fried. Our Zalebieh is healthfully baked. Nigella sativa is a very short plant that belongs to the family of fennel and anise. The fruit of the plant contains white seeds that turn black as soon as exposed to air. Nigella, or black cumin seeds, contain Nigellon, which appears to aid digestion and to stimulate the Immune system. It is also used for the treatment of asthma and whooping cough. Region: Chouf

1. In a bowl, combine the whole-wheat flour with the black cumin, milk powder, powdered anise, yeast and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Warm 1 cup of water and add it gradually to the above mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the bowl with a cloth for 2 hours and leave it to rest in a warm environment so that the dough rises.
4. After 2 hours, preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and mold the dough into finger-like shapes. Sprinkle the roasted sesame seeds over each piece.
5. Arrange the zalebieh on a baking tray and bake them in the oven at 200°C
6. (392°F) for 20 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, mix the grape molasses with 1 cup of warm water in a bowl.
8. Dip the zalebieh in the molasses mixture for a couple of minutes immediately after their removal from the oven and serve.