Bread with flax seeds and olive oil

Bread with Flax Seeds and Olive Oil – A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe

Welcome to the fascinating world of artisanal bread! Today, I invite you to discover a special recipe for bread with flax seeds and olive oil, which is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and nutritional benefits. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add a healthy touch to their diet without sacrificing taste.

A Brief History

Bread is one of the oldest known foods to humanity, with deep roots in culinary history. Over time, various cultures have developed unique techniques and recipes, each with its characteristic ingredients. Flax seeds, used for thousands of years, are valued not only for their slightly nutty flavor but also for the health benefits they provide, such as their rich content of Omega-3 and fiber.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 35-40 minutes
- Total: approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 loaves

Ingredients

- 800 g wheat flour
- 200 g wheat bran
- 4-5 tablespoons flax seeds
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 50 mL extra virgin olive oil
- 600 mL warm water (approximately)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt, to taste

Steps for Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Starter

1. Initial mixture: In a large bowl, combine fresh yeast with sugar and olive oil. Mix well to activate the yeast.

2. Adding flour: Incorporate 200 g of flour and bran, mixing until you obtain a homogeneous paste. The consistency should be similar to that of sour cream.

3. Maturation: Set the starter aside in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential for the yeast to begin the fermentation process, which will help achieve a fluffy bread.

Step 2: Forming the Dough

4. Adding flax seeds: After the starter has risen, add the flax seeds and mix well.

5. Incorporating the remaining flour: Gradually add the rest of the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain an elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

6. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shaping and Baking

7. Shaping the loaves: After the dough has risen, place it on a lightly floured work surface. Knead it gently to remove the air, then divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into small loaves.

8. Let it rise again: Place the loaves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 10-15 minutes.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the loaves for 35-40 minutes or until they turn golden and sound hollow when tapped. For a crunchier crust, you can place a tray of water in the oven.

Practical Tips

- Types of flour: You can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye flour, to achieve various flavors and textures.

- Additional seeds: Besides flax seeds, you can add sesame, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds for extra taste and nutrients.

- Olive oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor.

- Storing bread: Bread keeps well in an airtight container but can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in fiber and protein due to the wheat bran and flax seeds. Flax seeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain heart health. Additionally, consuming whole grain bread can contribute to a healthy digestive system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

- How do I know when the bread is baked?
The bread is done when it has a golden crust and, if you tap it lightly on the bottom, it should sound hollow.

Serving

These flax seed breads are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them plain, with butter or olive oil, or use them for healthy sandwiches. An excellent combination is to serve them alongside a cream soup or a fresh salad.

Variations

- Herb bread: Add dried herbs (oregano, basil) to the dough for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Sweet bread: Replace flax seeds with dried fruits or nuts for a sweeter version.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start cooking! This recipe for bread with flax seeds and olive oil is not only a way to bring a touch of health to your diet but also an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills. Enjoy your meal!