Bread with figs

Fig Bread Recipe: A Flavorful Delight for All Senses

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Welcome to the fascinating world of homemade bread! Today, I invite you to discover a simple and tasty recipe for fig bread, which will bring a touch of flavor and aroma to every meal. This bread is not just a simple food, but a journey of the senses, with a perfect balance between the natural sweetness of figs and the fluffy texture of the dough.

A brief story about bread

Bread is one of the oldest and most universal foods, consumed in various forms and varieties throughout history. Whether it is a simple, dark, or white bread, each culture has its unique recipes, passed down from generation to generation. Today, we focus on a delicious variant enriched with figs, which not only brings a distinct taste but also a series of nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

- 100 ml warm water
- 1 packet of dry yeast (7 g)
- Salt to taste
- 50 ml olive oil
- 25 ml vegetable oil
- Flour as needed (approximately 500-600 g)
- 50 g dried figs, finely chopped

Useful tips for ingredients

- Dry yeast: Make sure it is fresh; check the expiration date on the package. If you want to use fresh yeast, use about 20 g, but you will need a larger amount of water.
- Figs: They not only add a delicious taste but are also an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants. If you prefer, you can substitute figs with other dried fruits, such as apricots or raisins.
- Olive oil: Using this not only improves the texture of the bread but also gives it a richer flavor. If you don't have it, you can use any other vegetable oil.

Preparation technique

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water with the dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on top. This is when the yeast starts to activate.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the flour (start with 400 g), salt, and both types of oil. Add the water and yeast mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients until you get a homogeneous dough.

3. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes, gradually adding flour until it becomes elastic and smooth. The dough should be slightly sticky, but don't overdo it with the flour – a bread that is too dry will not be as fluffy.

4. Adding the figs: Once the dough is well kneaded, add the finely chopped figs. Continue kneading until they are evenly distributed in the dough.

5. First rising: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto the work surface and shape it into a round form. Place it in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover it again, and let it rise for 1 hour.

7. Baking the bread: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). When the bread has risen, place the tray in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden and passes the toothpick test (when you insert a toothpick in the middle of the bread, it should come out clean).

8. Cooling: After baking, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent moisture from accumulating under the bread.

Serving and variations

Once the bread is cooled, it is ready to be served! You can slice it and serve it with a flavored butter or soft cheese. I recommend trying it with a yogurt sauce and fresh herbs for a combination of textures and flavors.

If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients to the dough, such as nuts or seeds, for a more interesting texture. Another variation would be to add spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a more exotic taste.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you will need to adjust the amount of water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

How long can this bread be stored?
Fig bread keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer; make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap.

What drinks pair well with this bread?
Fig bread pairs perfectly with a warm herbal tea or a dry white wine, which will highlight the sweetness of the figs.

Nutritional benefits

Fig bread is not only delicious but also healthy. Figs are rich in fiber, which helps with digestion, and contain antioxidants that can contribute to heart health. Additionally, it is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Personal note

For me, this fig bread recipe brings back memories of family moments spent together around the table enjoying homemade goodies. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your moments of joy and flavor with your loved ones.

I hope this recipe brings you not only a delicious bread to the table but also a memorable experience in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!