Bread with yogurt

Yogurt Bread - Delicious and Simple Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The history of bread is a fascinating one, with roots that stretch back millennia. From simple bread made from ground grains to today’s more sophisticated recipes, each culture has added its personal touch. In this recipe, we will focus on a delicious variant that combines the soft texture of yogurt with the rich flavors of whole grain flours. This yogurt bread is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for everyday meals.

Ingredients:

- 250 g white flour
- 250 g mix of rye, spelt, and wheat flour
- 230 ml lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 200 ml natural yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet of dry yeast (approximately 7 g)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Before you start, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, except for the water, which should be lukewarm but not hot. This will help the yeast activate optimally. If you have whole grain or sprouted wheat flour available, you can use them for added nutrients and flavor.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In the bread machine's pan, first add the liquids: lukewarm water, yogurt, and oil. Ensure the oil is of good quality, as it will influence the final flavor of the bread. Then, add the sugar and salt. Follow with the two types of flour, making sure the white flour is last. Finally, add the dry yeast, being careful not to let it come into direct contact with the salt, as this could inhibit the yeast's activity.

Step 3: Preparing the dough
Select the dough program on your bread machine. After about 5 minutes, check the consistency of the dough. If it seems too liquid, don’t hesitate to add a handful of white flour, mixing gently. A good dough should be elastic and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Rising the dough
Once the program is finished, transfer the dough into a round shape. Before covering it, use a small portion of the dough to form a thin "string" that you will use to decorate the bread. Let the dough rise for about 30 minutes in a warm place, covered with a clean towel.

Step 5: Decorating and baking
After the dough has risen, brush it with the 2 tablespoons of yogurt using a kitchen brush. This will give a golden color and a pleasant texture to the crust. Use the string you prepared earlier to create an "X" on top of the dough. This will not only look good but will also help with even baking. Sprinkle the pine nuts on top for added flavor and texture.

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the pan with the dough in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the bread is golden and looks good. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is baked.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a rack. It’s important to allow it to cool completely before slicing to retain moisture and airy texture. This bread can be served warm, alongside butter, cheese, or even with a hot soup. It’s also excellent for sandwiches or as a base for bruschetta.

Nutritional information:
This yogurt bread is a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy a tasty and healthy food. Rye flour is rich in fiber and minerals, while yogurt provides a good source of probiotics that aid digestion. A 100 g serving of this bread contains approximately 250 kcal, but the caloric value may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations:
If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add dried herbs like rosemary or oregano to the flour mixture to enhance the flavor. You can also use different types of seeds, such as sesame or chia seeds, to add extra nutrients and an interesting taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast. Replace 7 g of dry yeast with about 20 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I keep the bread fresh for longer?
The bread can be kept in a paper bag at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. What can I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure the yeast is active. You can check this by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm water with a bit of sugar. If it forms bubbles, it is active.

This yogurt bread recipe will not only enrich your meals but will quickly become a family favorite. Experiment with ingredients and techniques, and the result will always be a delicious bread that brings warmth and comfort to your home. Enjoy every slice and savor the cooking process!