Spiced bread for tea

Spiced Bread for Tea – A Flavorful Delicacy in Cold Times

When the weather turns gloomy and we feel under the weather, what could be more comforting than a slice of warm, aromatic bread alongside a cup of hot tea? This Spiced Bread for Tea recipe is perfect for those days when we want to indulge in something special yet simple to prepare. It’s a delicious combination of flavors that will turn any moment into a moment of relaxation and joy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients:
- 250 g flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 50 g sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- a few strands of saffron
- 50 g raisins
- 50 g chopped nuts
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 5 tablespoons quince jam (or apricot)
- 1 egg
- 150 ml milk

A Brief History
Spiced bread, this aromatic loaf, has its roots in the tradition of adding spices and local ingredients to everyday dishes. Over time, homemakers have experimented with various ingredient combinations, creating unique recipes that have become part of the culinary heritage. This spiced bread is not just food, but also a story, a way to bring warmth and comfort on less pleasant days.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Spiced Bread

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and the Pan
Start by preheating the oven to 170°C (325°F). Choose a loaf pan and grease it with butter, then dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Activating the Saffron
In a small bowl, add a few strands of saffron and pour 2 tablespoons of hot water over them. Let it sit for 10 minutes. This step is essential to extract the aroma and vibrant color of the saffron, a precious ingredient.

Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a larger bowl, sift the flour, then add the baking powder, ground cloves, cinnamon, sugar, salt, chopped nuts, orange zest, and raisins. Mix all the dry ingredients well so that the flavors blend harmoniously.

Step 4: Combining the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, add the activated saffron (drained of water), the beaten egg, quince jam (or apricot), and milk. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Step 5: Uniting the Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix with a spoon until fully combined. Don’t worry if the mixture is a bit thicker; this is normal for a denser bread.

Step 6: Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the oven. Let it bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can check if it’s done using a tester (a toothpick) – if it comes out clean, the bread is perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving
After the baking time is up, let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into suitable slices and serve as is or spread with a bit of butter.

Serving Suggestions
This spiced bread pairs excellently with a cup of hot mint tea, but it also goes well with morning coffee or even a glass of milk. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or with butter, each bite will bring a smile to your face.

Practical Tips
- Flour: You can use whole wheat flour or a combination of white and whole wheat flour for a richer taste and healthier texture.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or ginger for a personalized flavor.
- Raisins: If you don’t like raisins, you can opt for dried apricots or cranberries to add a fruity note.

Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does this bread last? You can store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, this bread can be frozen. Slice it and keep it in a freezer bag. You can thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.
- Can it be made without sugar? You can replace sugar with a natural sweetener, but adjust the liquid amount in the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits
This spiced bread is rich in fiber due to the whole wheat flour and nuts, while saffron has antioxidant properties. Raisins add a healthy source of sweetness and energy, making it an excellent choice for a nourishing breakfast or snack.

In conclusion, this Spiced Bread for Tea is not just a simple recipe, but a way to turn ordinary moments into special ones. Try it and enjoy its unique flavors with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!