Bread with olives

Olive Bread - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, this olive bread will surely become your favorite. The rich flavors of olives blend perfectly with the fluffy texture of the bread, offering a unique taste, ideal to be served alongside cheeses, salads, or even as an appetizer. Let's get started!

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g wheat flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 g powdered milk
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 30 ml olive oil
- 90-100 ml warm milk
- 100 g sliced olives
- 100 g poppy seeds (optional, for decoration)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. It is essential that the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. You can use green or black olives, depending on your preference. If you want an extra flavor, you can choose olives stuffed with peppers or herbs.

Step 2: Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast and sugar, then pour in the warm milk. Gently mix and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This is an important step to ensure your bread will be fluffy and well-risen.

Step 3: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, eggs, and powdered milk. Then, add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 4: Adding the olives
Once you have a homogeneous dough, incorporate the sliced olives. Knead gently to distribute them evenly throughout the dough. Now, it’s time to unleash your creativity! You can also add herbs like oregano or rosemary for an even more intense flavor.

Step 5: Proofing the dough
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with olive oil. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 1 hour or until the dough doubles in volume.

Step 6: Baking the bread
After the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 180°C. Shape the dough into the desired form, either a round loaf or a baguette. You can sprinkle poppy seeds on top for an attractive look and a crunchy taste. Place the bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 15-20 minutes.

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until it turns golden and sounds hollow when you tap it lightly on the bottom.

Step 7: Serving and variations
After baking, let the bread cool on a rack. Serve it warm, alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refined appetizer. You can experiment with different types of olives or add crumbled feta cheese to the dough for an even more intense flavor.

This olive bread recipe is not only simple but also full of personality, turning a basic ingredient into a sophisticated dish. Enjoy every slice and share this delicacy with family and friends!