Polar bread

Polar bread is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for enjoying at any time of the day. It has a soft and fluffy texture, and its inviting aroma will turn any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. In this guide, I will provide you with all the necessary information to achieve perfect polar bread, sharing some useful tips to assist you along the way.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 8-10 pieces

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g of wheat flour (preferably type 650 for a fluffier texture)
- 200 ml of warm water
- 25 g of fresh yeast
- 60 g of thick sour cream
- 10 g of brown sugar (for a deeper flavor)
- 10 g of salt
- 10 g of dill seeds (or caraway, according to preference)

Tips for choosing ingredients:
- Choose high-quality flour rich in gluten, which will help develop the dough structure.
- Fresh yeast is essential for achieving fluffy bread, but if you only have dry yeast, use about 8 g.
- Using thick sour cream adds a creamy flavor to the dough, but it can also be replaced with natural yogurt or kefir for a healthier option.

The history of polar bread:
Polar bread is a traditional recipe that is part of the heritage of many cultures. It has been made over time by skilled housewives who wanted to bring a touch of warmth and comfort into their homes. Although the recipe may vary from one region to another, its essence remains: a simple bread, yet full of flavor.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. In another container, dissolve the yeast in warm water and add the sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step to activate the yeast!

2. Mixing the ingredients:
Make a well in the flour and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by the sour cream. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to start incorporating the ingredients. When the dough becomes hard to mix, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.

3. Kneading the dough:
Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add flour, but avoid adding too much flour, as this can make the bread denser.

4. Letting the dough rise:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the breads:
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin until you get a sheet about 1 cm thick. Use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the dough, which will help it cook evenly.

6. Resting in the fridge:
Cover the sheet of dough with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 20 minutes. This step helps relax the gluten, making it easier to form the discs.

7. Cutting the discs:
Use a glass or pastry cutter to cut out discs of dough the size of a small plate. Place the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for 1 hour.

8. Poking and baking:
Flip the discs over and poke holes with a fork on the other side. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Bake the discs for about 30 seconds on each side or until they turn golden. Do not use oil, as polar bread is cooked on a dry surface.

9. Serving:
After baking, let them cool on a cooling rack. Stack them on top of each other to prevent drying out. Polar bread can be served plain, sprinkled with spices, or as part of a platter with cheeses and cold cuts.

Variations and serving suggestions:
1. Polar bread with cheese: Use the same dough to make pies filled with cottage cheese, raisins, and an egg for a rich flavor. This variant perfectly combines the fluffy texture of the bread with the savory and sweet filling.

2. Spices: Experiment with different spices. Caraway seeds, rosemary, or oregano can provide a distinct and interesting flavor.

3. Recommended drinks: Polar bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm tea or a glass of white wine, as well as with natural fruit juices.

Frequently asked questions:
- What can I do if the dough doesn't rise? Make sure the yeast is fresh and that you used warm water, not hot, to activate the yeast.
- Can I freeze polar bread? Yes, these discs can be frozen. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional benefits:
Polar bread is an excellent source of carbohydrates, and adding dill or caraway seeds not only enhances the flavor but also brings digestive benefits. This bread is versatile and can be included in a balanced diet alongside fresh vegetables or lean proteins.

With a little effort and patience, you will achieve warm, aromatic bread that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Experiment with various fillings and spices, transform the recipe, and enjoy every bite!