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Breakfast Meals Cooking Time : 45 minutes Recipe Servings : 4 Recipe Dificult : easy 0.00

Authentic Libyan Ftat Derna Recipe | Traditional Derna Bread with Tomato & Spiced Sauce

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Ftat Derna is a traditional Libyan dish associated with the city of Derna in eastern Libya. It is a comforting bread-based meal made by tearing pieces of flatbread or traditional Libyan bread and combining them with a rich, warmly spiced tomato sauce. The bread absorbs the flavorful sauce, creating a hearty dish with a soft texture and aromatic North African character.

Often prepared as a simple family meal, Ftat Derna can be served with chickpeas, eggs, or other savory additions depending on the household and occasion. Its combination of bread, tomato, olive oil, garlic, and spices makes it an economical yet satisfying example of Libyan home cooking.

Cooking Method

Tear the flatbread into small bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook until softened and lightly golden.
Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste.
Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the water and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato sauce thickens.
Stir in the cooked chickpeas and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Add the torn bread gradually, tossing gently so it absorbs the sauce without becoming completely mushy.
Remove from the heat and allow the bread to rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with parsley and optional chili or sliced boiled eggs.
Serve warm.