Bread with olives

Olive bread – a delicacy that combines the rich aroma of olives with the fluffy texture of fresh bread. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a hearty breakfast to an elegant dinner. By making this bread, you will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of culinary tradition that combines simple ingredients to create an exceptional dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 70-80 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 slices

Ingredients

- 500 g white flour
- 200 g whole wheat flour (you can use 100 g whole wheat flour and 100 g rye flour for a more complex flavor)
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- 200 ml lukewarm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon seeds (for example, flaxseeds)
- 100 g Kalamata olives, finely chopped

Preparation of olive bread

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. The olives should be finely chopped and left on a paper towel to absorb excess water. This step is crucial to avoid the dough becoming too wet.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water with a little sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an indicator that the yeast is active and ready to use.

3. Preparing the dough in the bread machine: Depending on your bread machine model, add the ingredients according to the instructions. Usually, liquids are added first: lukewarm milk, water, olive oil, and then the activated yeast. Follow with white flour and whole wheat flour, and finally, add the salt. The salt should not come into direct contact with the yeast, as it can inhibit its activity. When the machine signals, add the chopped olives and flaxseeds.

4. Manual preparation: If you don’t have a bread machine, you can prepare the dough manually. In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients, then add the liquids. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface. Gently knead it to remove air, then shape it into a loaf or divide it in two to make two smaller loaves. Place the bread in the baking pan, cover it again, and let it rise for 30 minutes.

6. Baking the bread: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Bake the bread for 50-60 minutes, or until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped. If you use a pan of water in the oven, you will achieve a crispier crust.

7. Cooling: After baking, remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a rack. This allows the steam to escape and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Useful tips

- Gluten-free version: If you want to make a gluten-free version, you can use a special gluten-free flour and add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum.
- Additional flavors: You can add dried herbs, such as dill or oregano, to enhance the flavor.
- Enhancing texture: Instead of flaxseeds, you can use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chia seeds for a different texture.

Delicious combinations

This olive bread pairs perfectly with aged cheeses, fresh salads, or as an appetizer spread with avocado paste. It is also wonderful alongside a warm soup or stew, adding flavor and substance to your meal.

Nutritional benefits

Olive bread contains fiber from whole wheat flour, which aids in healthy digestion, and healthy fats from olive oil and olives. It is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions

- Why use fresh yeast? Fresh yeast gives a richer flavor and better texture, but you can also use active dry yeast, being careful to adjust the amount (about 14 g of dry yeast).
- How do I store the bread? The bread stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer – make sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Personal note

This recipe is one of my favorites, as the olives bring a unique flavor and reminiscences of family meals. It reminds me of the moments spent with loved ones, enjoying a slice of warm bread with butter or cheese. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe.

I wish you happy cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Olive bread is more than just a dish; it is an experience that brings people and flavors together.