Portuguese Briosa - Bolo Rei

Portuguese Brioche - Bolo Rei

Welcome to the fascinating world of traditional sweets! Today, I will introduce you to a special recipe that not only combines delicious flavors but also carries a story rich in tradition. This is Bolo Rei, a Portuguese brioche that symbolizes the crown of the three wise men and brings joy to every home, especially during the winter holidays. This delightful brioche is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, offering a true feast of flavors and textures.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 6 hours (total)
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

- 750 g of flour
- 2 packets of dry yeast (approximately 14 g)
- 150 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g of sugar
- 150 g of candied fruit (cherries, oranges)
- 100 g of dried fruit (raisins, dried bananas, etc.)
- 50 g of Turkish delight
- 4 eggs
- Zest of one orange and one lemon
- 3 tablespoons of rum (for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 egg (for a shiny glaze)
- Sugar pearls (for decoration)
- Fruit jelly (to give shine)

Preparing Bolo Rei

Step 1: Marinating the fruits

Start by marinating the dried fruits (raisins, bananas) with the three tablespoons of rum. They will absorb the flavors of the rum, adding a unique taste to the brioche. Let them sit for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the starter

In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 100 ml of warm water, one tablespoon of sugar, and 4 tablespoons of flour. Stir well and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, until the mixture doubles in volume. This is when the yeast starts to ferment and become active.

Step 3: Making the dough

In a large bowl, beat the butter with the remaining sugar until creamy and fluffy. Add the orange and lemon zest, and mix well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing continuously. Once the starter is ready, incorporate it into the butter and egg mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, kneading with your hands or using a dough hook mixer until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough.

Step 4: Adding the fruits

After kneading the dough well, add the candied and dried fruits, gently mixing to distribute them evenly. Reserve some fruits for the final decoration.

Step 5: Rising the dough

Sprinkle the dough with a little flour, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for at least 5 hours. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy brioche.

Step 6: Shaping the brioche

After 5 hours, the dough should have risen significantly. Insert a figurine (representing a king) into the dough, then shape it into a thick ring. Place the ring on a baking sheet and let it rise again for about an hour, covered with the towel.

Step 7: Preparing the oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Before baking the brioche, brush it with a beaten egg mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of cold milk to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Decorate with sugar pearls and candied fruits to make it look festive.

Step 8: Baking

Bake the brioche in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden. Check if it's baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 9: Finishing

Once you take the brioche out of the oven, brush it with fruit jelly mixed with a little water for a shiny finish. Let the brioche cool on a wire rack, and then it's ready to serve!

Serving and suggestions

Bolo Rei is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed plain or alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. It is also perfect for sharing with family and friends, especially during the holidays.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add different types of candied fruits or replace the rum with another type of alcohol, such as brandy. Another option is to add chopped nuts or almonds for extra texture.

Nutritional information

Bolo Rei is a calorie-rich brioche due to the butter and sugar, but the fruits add vitamins and antioxidants. A 100 g serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, so it's best to consume it in moderation, especially if you are mindful of your caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

2. How can I store Bolo Rei?
It keeps well in a plastic bag or an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

3. Is this brioche suitable for vegans?
To make a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with banana or apple puree and the butter with vegan margarine.

4. Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips for a more decadent flavor.

Bolo Rei is not just a brioche; it's an experience full of flavor and tradition. Here’s a dessert that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So let's enjoy this treat together! Bon appétit!