Poppy seed bread

Poppy Seed Bread - A Delicacy at Home

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 slices

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread? Poppy seed bread is a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that will not only fill your home with a delicious scent but will also bring an unmistakable taste to your table. This fluffy bread, topped with crunchy poppy seeds and a hint of sesame, is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even to accompany a festive meal.

The history of poppy seed bread is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary culture. It is a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own variation and preparation techniques. Now, we offer you the chance to bring this tradition into your own kitchen!

Necessary ingredients:

- 700 g wheat flour (you can use a combination of white and whole wheat flour for a richer flavor)
- 3 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 250 ml lukewarm milk (we recommend whole milk for a creamier texture)
- 150 g butter (melted and cooled, but not hot!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6 tablespoons of poppy seeds (you can add more if you're a fan of this ingredient)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (or 7 g of dry yeast)

Step by step:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and 100 ml of lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This step is essential, as the activated yeast will help the bread rise.

2. Sifting the flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour. This step helps to aerate the flour, resulting in lighter and fluffier bread.

3. Adding wet ingredients: In the middle of the flour, add the beaten eggs, cooled melted butter, and start kneading by gradually adding the lukewarm milk. Use a spatula at first, then continue with your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough.

4. Dividing the dough: Once the dough is well-kneaded, divide it into two equal parts. In one part, add the 6 tablespoons of poppy seeds and knead again, while in the other part, add 2 tablespoons of sesame.

5. Rising: Cover both bowls with a clean towel and let them rise for 40 minutes in a warm place. The dough should double in volume.

6. Braiding: After the dough has risen, shape each part into long rolls. Braid the two rolls together and carefully place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Second rising: Cover the dough again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This step will ensure an airy texture of your bread.

8. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the dough with a beaten egg yolk and sprinkle salt on top, and if desired, a bit more poppy seeds or sesame.

9. Baking: Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when lightly tapped on the bottom. Let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

10. Serving: Poppy seed bread is served warm, freshly spread with butter or fruit jams. Imagine the first slice, with melted butter running down, accompanied by a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee.

Useful tips:

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform texture.
- You can experiment with other seeds, such as sunflower seeds or chia, to add extra flavor and nutritional benefits.
- If you like a crunchier crust, you can place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why does my bread remain dense? Make sure the yeast is correctly activated and that you let the dough rise sufficiently.

2. Can I freeze the bread? Yes, the bread freezes very well. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container.

3. What other ingredients can I add? You can add crumbled feta cheese, olives, or herbs to give it a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Poppy seed bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and fiber, contributing to bone health and digestive system well-being. Additionally, whole wheat flour (if you choose to use it) adds necessary fiber for healthy digestion.

In conclusion, this poppy seed bread recipe is more than just a simple homemade bread recipe; it is an opportunity to create beautiful memories, share joyful moments with loved ones, and enjoy a delicacy that will bring warmth and flavor to every day of the week. Let's get cooking and turn every meal into a celebration!