Tasty bread with pesto and chili pepper

Delicious Recipe for Tasty Bread with Pesto and Chili Pepper

If you are looking for a bread recipe that will turn any meal into a feast, you have come to the right place! This pesto and chili pepper bread is not just ordinary bread; it is an explosion of flavors and textures that will delight your senses. Perfect to enjoy alongside a warm soup, a fresh salad, or even as an appetizer, this recipe is simple yet offers an extraordinary result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Necessary ingredients:

- 275 g white flour
- 275 g whole wheat flour
- 250 ml lukewarm water
- 2 packets of dry yeast (about 14 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pesto (about 100 g, or to taste)
- Chili powder (to taste)

Step by step for perfect bread:

1. Mixing dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the two types of flour (white and whole wheat) and the two packets of dry yeast. Mix well to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed in the flour. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to activate the yeast.

2. Preparing the salted water: In the meantime, take a small pot and heat 250 ml of water until it is lukewarm (about 37°C). Add the salt to the water and stir until completely dissolved. It is important that the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.

3. Kneading the dough: Add the olive oil and salted water to the bowl with flour. Start mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until the ingredients begin to come together. Then, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for activating the gluten, which will give the bread a fluffy texture.

4. Rising the dough: Once the dough becomes elastic and smooth, shape it into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape them into long rolls. You can play with the shape, making smaller buns or even decorative shapes.

6. Adding pesto and chili pepper: Cut each roll in half, but not all the way through, leaving a hinge to close them. Spread a little pesto inside each roll and sprinkle chili powder to taste. Close the rolls, making sure the pesto and spices are well integrated into the dough.

7. Baking the bread: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 15 minutes. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy on the surface. A trick to check if the bread is baked is to tap it lightly on the bottom; if it sounds hollow, it's done!

8. Cooling and serving: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. This bread is delicious served warm, but it can also be kept for consumption the next day. I recommend pairing it with a fresh tomato salad or goat cheese.

Practical tips:

- Flour: Use quality flour for the best results. Whole wheat flour adds a more complex flavor and interesting texture.
- Pesto: You can use store-bought pesto or make one at home from fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil. Here you have the chance to customize the recipe!
- Chili pepper: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or use a fresh chili pepper, finely chopped.
- Variations: Experiment with various spices, such as rosemary or garlic, to give a unique touch.

Nutrition and calories:

This bread contains healthy ingredients, being rich in fiber due to the whole wheat flour. A 100 g serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of pesto used. It is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can this bread be stored? Yes, it can be stored in a paper bag or an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- What other flavors can I add? You can try olives, feta cheese, or nuts to vary the flavors.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes, all ingredients are vegan, making it ideal for plant-based diets.

I hope you will try this tasty bread recipe with pesto and chili pepper! It is a great way to impress your friends and family at dinner or simply to indulge in a delicious and healthy dish. Enjoy!