Olive bread.

Stepping into Mediterranean Flavors: Olive Breads

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe to bring Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen, look no further! These olive breads are perfect to be served warm or cold, and their fluffy texture and savory taste will win you over instantly. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow technique, you'll transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Proofing time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Servings: 10-11 breads

Ingredients

- 500 g wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 25 g fresh yeast (1 cube)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons natural yogurt
- 220 ml lukewarm water
- Black and green olives, sliced (approximately 100 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- 1 egg yolk for a shiny finish

Brief History

In many cultures, bread has been considered a staple food, symbolizing not only physical nourishment but also unity and hospitality. Olive breads are a savory variant, enriched with ingredients that reflect the richness of the Mediterranean land. Olives, being a versatile ingredient, appear in numerous dishes, adding flavor and nutrients.

Step by Step: Preparing the Breads

1. Preparing the Yeast: In a small bowl, crumble the yeast cube and add 2-3 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Stir gently until the yeast is completely dissolved. Let the yeast sit for 5-10 minutes until it starts to bubble. This step is essential for activating the yeast!

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the activated yeast into the well and mix gently with a little flour from around, letting it sit for another 5 minutes. Add the salt, olive oil, yogurt, and gradually incorporate the lukewarm water. Use a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients.

3. Kneading the Dough: Once the ingredients are well combined, start kneading. Use your hands to knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add up to 50 g of additional flour. If you have a food processor or bread machine, you can use these devices to knead.

4. First Proofing: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little olive oil. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 1 hour.

5. Shaping the Breads: After the dough has risen, divide it into 10-11 equal parts. Shape round balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let them rise for 30 minutes.

6. Filling with Olives: After the second proofing, roll out each ball with a rolling pin, adding a few slices of olives on each. Gather the edges of the dough like a pouch and press gently to seal. Place the breads seam-side down on the tray.

7. Preparing for Baking: Beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of olive oil and brush each bread with this mixture to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Use a serrated knife to make 2 shallow cuts on each bread.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once you've finished preparing the breads, place the tray in the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

9. Cooling: Remove the breads from the oven and cover them with a clean towel to soften the crust slightly. Serve them warm or at room temperature, alongside feta cheese or butter.

Serving and Recommendations

These olive breads are excellent as an appetizer, paired with a yogurt dip or a fresh salad. You can also serve them alongside a warm soup or as part of a Mediterranean meal. Additionally, a combination of dry white wine will perfectly complement the flavors of these breads.

Useful Tips

- Olives: You can experiment with different types of olives to achieve a diverse flavor. Green olives add a spicier note, while black ones offer a subtle sweetness.
- Variations: Depending on your preferences, you can add herbs such as rosemary or oregano to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Storage: These breads can be stored in aluminum foil or a plastic bag at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace the cube of fresh yeast with 7 g of dry yeast, activating it according to the instructions on the package.

Can I freeze these breads?
Yes, you can freeze the breads. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag. You can reheat them in the oven when you want to serve them.

How can I customize the recipe?
You can add crumbled feta cheese, stuffed olives, or even caramelized vegetables for a richer version of the recipe.

Conclusion

These olive breads are not only easy to make but also incredibly tasty, bringing a touch of sunshine to every bite. Whether you serve them at a festive meal or as a quick snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your family. We wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!