Open-Faced Ka’ak Sandwich With Avocado, Za’atar, and Halloumi 

Picture this: A sunny afternoon in the heart of the Mediterranean, where the scent of freshly baked Ka’ak bread wafts through narrow cobblestone streets. The locals gather around, waiting eagerly for the daily delivery of this golden, sesame-studded bread. But what happens when you take this beloved Middle Eastern staple, layer it with creamy avocado, sprinkle a generous dusting of aromatic za’atar, and top it with golden, grilled halloumi cheese? The result? An irresistible open-faced sandwich that has people talking, sharing, and salivating across continents.

This is not just a sandwich; it’s a conversation starter, a memory maker, and a flavor bomb waiting to explode in your mouth. It brings together the creamy richness of avocado, the tangy zest of za’atar, and the salty, chewy delight of halloumi. It’s comfort food with a twist — a modern take on an ancient classic, perfect for brunch, lunch, or any time you crave something utterly delicious.

So why has this sandwich gone viral? Perhaps it’s the unexpected harmony of flavors or the tantalizing textures. Maybe it’s the Instagram-worthy presentation — vibrant green avocado, golden halloumi, and the rustic charm of Ka’ak. Whatever it is, one thing is clear: this sandwich is a game-changer. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite, the kind you immediately text your friends about, urging them to try it out.

Introduction:

Imagine biting into a sandwich that feels like a journey across the Mediterranean coast. An open-faced Ka’ak sandwich that combines the velvety smoothness of avocado, the citrusy-herbaceous burst of za’atar, and the rich, salty chew of grilled halloumi cheese. This is no ordinary sandwich; it’s a sensory adventure that combines the best of traditional flavors with a modern twist.

Ka’ak, a beloved Middle Eastern bread, is soft on the inside with a delightful crunch from its sesame-coated exterior. It has long been enjoyed with a simple dip of olive oil or a sprinkle of za’atar, but today, we’re elevating it to new heights. We’re adding ripe avocado for creaminess, za’atar for that aromatic zing, and halloumi — the “grillable” cheese that refuses to melt — for a satisfying, golden crust that crackles with every bite.

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating an experience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch, add a twist to your weekday lunch, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, this open-faced Ka’ak sandwich promises to deliver on all fronts. Let’s dive in!

Yield and Total Time:

• Yield: 2 servings
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 pieces of Ka’ak bread (or any sesame-studded flatbread)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 2 tablespoons za’atar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Ka’ak Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Ka’ak bread on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes until slightly crispy but still soft inside. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Grill the Halloumi: While the bread is toasting, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil and place the halloumi slices on the pan. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese turns golden brown with grill marks. Remove and set aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay the toasted Ka’ak bread on a plate. Layer the avocado slices evenly over the bread, then sprinkle a generous amount of za’atar over the avocado. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
4. Add Fresh Vegetables: Arrange the cucumber and tomato slices over the avocado layer. Add a dash of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
5. Top with Halloumi: Place the grilled halloumi slices on top, ensuring each sandwich gets a balanced portion. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serve: Serve the open-faced sandwiches with lemon wedges on the side. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the top before each bite will add a tangy brightness that elevates the entire dish.

Nutritional Information:

1. Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
2. Protein: 18g
3. Carbohydrates: 35g
4. Fiber: 7g
5. Sugars: 3g
6. Fat: 30g (of which saturated fat is 10g)
7. Sodium: 850mg
8. Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
9. Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
10. Calcium: 25% of the DV

Tips for the Recipe:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh avocado, ripe tomatoes, and crispy cucumbers make a world of difference in taste and texture.
2. Grill Halloumi Perfectly: To avoid halloumi sticking to the grill, make sure the pan is hot before placing the cheese.
3. Don’t Skip the Za’atar: Za’atar is key to achieving that signature Middle Eastern flavor. Find a high-quality blend for the best results.
4. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like roasted red peppers, olives, or pickled onions for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Serve Immediately: This sandwich is best served fresh to enjoy the crispy bread and warm halloumi cheese.
6. Use a Mandoline Slicer: For perfectly thin cucumber and tomato slices, use a mandoline slicer.
7. Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the avocado for an additional citrus kick.
8. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some roasted nuts or seeds like pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added texture.
9. Avocado Preservation: If you’re not eating the sandwich right away, brush avocado slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
10. Add Spice: If you love heat, add a few slices of fresh chili or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Substitutions:

For those who prefer different flavors or have dietary restrictions, this sandwich can easily adapt to suit your needs:

• Bread Substitute: If you can’t find Ka’ak bread, use a crusty whole grain baguette, sourdough, or pita bread. Each will add its unique texture and flavor to the sandwich.
• Cheese Substitute: If you’re not a fan of halloumi or need a dairy-free option, swap it for grilled tofu or vegan cheese. Feta cheese also works well for a crumbly, salty alternative.
• Avocado Alternative: If you’re looking to reduce fats or simply don’t like avocado, consider using hummus or baba ghanoush for a creamy base with a similar Mediterranean flair.
• Za’atar Variations: If you can’t find za’atar, make a quick substitute by mixing dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and a pinch of salt. It’s not the same, but it’s close enough to capture the essence.

Conclusion:

This Open-Faced Ka’ak Sandwich with Avocado, Za’atar, and Halloumi is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The combination of creamy avocado, aromatic za’atar, and crispy, salty halloumi cheese makes each bite a delightful surprise. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to shake up your lunch routine or impress friends with a unique dish, this sandwich offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and bursting with flavor — everything a great sandwich should be.

So, next time you’re craving something out of the ordinary, remember this recipe. It’s more than just food on a plate; it’s a story waiting to be shared, a dish that brings people together. Try it today and join the conversation around the sandwich that’s taking the world by storm!

Image by: Daniel Gritzer