Flower bread

Flower Bread Recipe - A Delicacy Based on Light and Aromatic Dough

Flower bread is a special dish that not only enriches everyday meals but also adds a touch of magic to any special occasion. This recipe will guide you step by step in creating a delicious bread with a fluffy texture and captivating shape, perfect to be served alongside various dishes or simply enjoyed with butter and jam. Get ready to surprise your family and friends with this spectacular bread!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

- 500 g wheat flour
- 300 ml warm water
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons water (for the brushing mixture)
- 20 g sesame seeds (for decoration)

The History of Flower Bread

Bread has been a staple food in human nutrition since ancient times, symbolizing prosperity and well-being. The flower shape is a creative way to pay homage to nature and transform a simple loaf into an edible work of art. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, giving you the opportunity to experience the art of baking.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Flower Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step not only aerates the flour but also helps to homogenize the ingredients. Add the salt and mix well.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a small container, dissolve the yeast in warm water, adding the teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an indication that the yeast has been properly activated.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
When the yeast is ready, pour it over the flour. Start mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands, and gradually add the oil. Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.

Practical Tips:
To achieve an optimal texture, make sure the dough is well kneaded. A useful technique is to stretch the dough and fold it a few times to develop the gluten.

Step 4: First Rising
Shape the dough into a ball, place it in an oiled bowl, and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 40 minutes until it doubles in volume.

Step 5: Shaping the Bread
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Using a lid or a ring, cut the dough into a round shape. Score it into eight triangles without cutting through the center.

Step 6: Forming the Flower
In each triangle, lightly score the center, then take the tip of the triangle and insert it through that cut a few times, thus forming the petals of the flower. Make sure each petal is well shaped for an attractive appearance.

Step 7: Second Rising
Let the bread rise again for 20 minutes, covered, to allow it to puff up.

Step 8: Preparing for Baking
Beat the egg yolk with the two tablespoons of water and lightly brush the surface of the bread with this mixture. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

Step 9: Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the bread in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at this temperature, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

Step 10: Cooling
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack. This will allow the steam to escape and the crust to remain crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Flower bread can be served warm, alongside fresh butter or fruit jam. It is also delicious when paired with cheeses or cold cuts. On festive days, it can be a perfect companion to meat dishes.

Variations and Tips

- Herb Variation: Add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary to the dough for extra flavor.
- Olive Bread: Incorporating chopped green or black olives into the dough will give it a Mediterranean touch.
- Sweetening: You can transform this recipe into a sweet bread by adding cinnamon and raisins to the dough.

Nutritional Benefits

This bread is a good source of complex carbohydrates and proteins, providing long-lasting energy. Additionally, olive oil adds healthy fats, and sesame seeds contribute fiber and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast, using about 10 g. Activate it in the same way.
- How can I store the bread? It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness.
- How long can it be stored? Flower bread is best consumed within the first 2-3 days, but you can freeze it to keep it longer.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put on your cooking gloves and get to work! With a little patience and creativity, you will achieve a beautiful flower bread that will impress everyone. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moment spent in the kitchen!