Iraqi Flat Bread (Samoon)

1½ tbsp active dry yeast
½ tbsp granulated sugar
1 cup lukewarm water, divided
4 cups bread flour
½ cup wheat bran
1 tbsp SIDS SALT & PEPPER
1 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp rice bran oil
TOPPING:--
1 egg
1 tbsp water
Sesame seeds

In a small bowl, whisk together the yeast and sugar with ½ cup of the lukewarm water. Allow to rest until frothy, 5-10 minutes.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or a large bowl, combine the flour, wheat bran, and SIDS SALT & PEPPER. Mix in the buttermilk, oil, and remaining ½ cup water until the dough comes together. If too crumbly, add a little more water. If too sticky, add a little more flour.
On a lightly floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic. Transfer to an oiled large bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a cloth or plastic and allow to rise at room temperature until doubled, about 1 hour.
On a lightly floured surface, punch down the dough and divide into 4 equal pieces. Cover and allow to rise for 10 minutes.
Place the oven racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven.
Preheat oven to 230°C. Line two baking trays with baking paper or lightly grease. Fill a small loaf pan with water and place on bottom rack.
Roll one piece of dough into a flat rectangle. Pull two opposite corners, like the top left and bottom right in opposite directions to form the rectangle into a diamond shape 18-20 cm across. Pinch and taper the two opposite ends to make them thinner than the rest of the diamond. Place on prepared baking tray and repeat with other pieces. Arrange two on each baking tray. Cover lightly with a towel and allow to rise until puffy, about 30 minutes.
In a small bowl, beat together the egg and water. Right before placing in oven, brush the tops of the bread with the egg wash. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake in oven until golden brown, 15-18 minutes. Repeat with other baking tray.
Best the day they are baked. Allow to cool on wire rack to develop a crisp exterior or wrap in cloth or a paper bag after baking to keep the bread soft.
Get your kids involved - they will love it even more!