Gáhkku (Sami Thin Bread)

Gáhkku is a traditional Sami bread with deep historical roots. The bread can be baked outdoors over an open fire, on a griddle, or in a frying pan, as well as at home in the kitchen. It is often served alongside bidos, a traditional Sami reindeer dish considered the national dish of the Sami people, but it also pairs well with spreads, soups, and stews.

• 400 g all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2.5 dl milk
• 75 g butter, at room temperature

1. Combine all the dry ingredients in a stand mixer. Add lukewarm milk and knead the dough for about 10 minutes.
2. Add the room temperature butter and continue kneading for another 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
5. Shape each piece into a ball and roll them out into round discs about 0.5 cm thick. You can use a patterned rolling pin or prick the discs with a fork.
6. Cook the discs in a dry frying pan or on a griddle over medium heat. Cook until they have nice, golden-brown spots on both sides.
7. Place the finished breads in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and moist.

Gáhkku tastes best when freshly baked, preferably with butter, cheese, or as an accompaniment to warm dishes like bidos, soups, and stews. The bread can also be enjoyed on its own.