Mediterranean bread with olive oil

Name: Mediterranean bread with olive oil - Axenia D.
Ingredients: 300 ml warm water 450 g flour 2 teaspoons sugar (brown) 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon olive oil (preferably extra virgin) 1 packet dry yeast (7 g)

Pasta/Pizza - Mediterranean bread with olive oil by Axenia D. - Recipia

Mediterranean Bread with Olive Oil Who doesn't love the fresh aroma of warm bread, with a crispy crust and fluffy crumb? Mediterranean bread with olive oil is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will turn any meal into a celebration of tastes. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result, using the simplest ingredients and easy-to-follow techniques. Preparation time: 15 minutes Rising time: 40-60 minutes Baking time: 25-30 minutes Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes Number of servings: 8 servings Necessary ingredients: - 300 ml lukewarm water (approximately 37-40°C) - 450 g wheat flour (ideally use type 00 flour for a finer texture) - 2 teaspoons brown sugar (to help activate the yeast) - 1 tablespoon salt (salt helps enhance flavor) - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (adds a rich and distinctive taste) - 1 packet of dry yeast (7 g) Preparing the dough: 1. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This is the base of your bread, so make sure each ingredient is well combined. 2. Adding the water: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the lukewarm water. It’s important that the water is lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Add the yeast to the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it starts to foam. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise. 3. Kneading the dough: Using a spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Then, transfer the dough to a floured work surface and start kneading. Knead for a maximum of 7 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. A helpful tip: if the dough sticks to your hands, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much to prevent making the bread too dense. 4. Adding the olive oil: After kneading the dough, add the olive oil. Continue kneading for another 3 minutes until the oil is fully incorporated. This step will not only provide a rich flavor but will also make the bread's texture softer. 5. Letting the dough rise: Grease a work surface with a little olive oil, then shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place, free from drafts, for 40-60 minutes until it doubles in size. This is when the yeast works its magic. Shaping and baking the bread: 6. Shaping the bread: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured work surface. Grease your hands with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Shape the dough into the desired form: either two small loaves or one large one. If you want to add an artistic touch, use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on top of the bread. This will allow steam to escape and create a beautiful crust. 7. Preparing for baking: Place the bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with oil and flour. Let it rise for another 20-30 minutes to develop more airiness. During this time, preheat the oven to 200°C. 8. Baking: Once the bread has risen, place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine! Serving and variations: Mediterranean bread with olive oil is delicious served warm, alongside high-quality olive oil for dipping, or with various fresh herbs and cheeses. It also pairs perfectly with soups, salads, and meat dishes. If you want to explore variations, you can add olives or herbs (such as rosemary or oregano) during kneading for an even more intense flavor. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative. Nutritional benefits: This bread is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Olive oil adds healthy fats, rich in antioxidants, beneficial for the heart. Additionally, wheat flour contains fiber, essential for healthy digestion. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use fresh yeast, but you will need to use double the amount (about 14 g) and dissolve it in lukewarm water. 2. How can I tell when the bread is baked? A well-baked bread will have a golden crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, the internal temperature should be around 90°C. 3. Can I freeze the bread? Absolutely! The bread freezes very well. Make sure to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. 4. What other drinks pair well with this bread? Mediterranean bread pairs wonderfully with light white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, but also with refreshing drinks like iced mint tea. Now that you have this wonderful recipe at hand, all that’s left is to try it! Whether you make it for a family meal or a night with friends, this Mediterranean bread with olive oil will surely be a hit. Enjoy the cooking process and savor every slice!