Flower bread

Flower Bread: A Fluffy Delight for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 2 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Who doesn't love the inviting smell of freshly baked bread, made with love in the oven? Flower Bread is more than just a simple loaf; it’s a culinary experience that combines fluffy texture with a unique appearance, bringing a touch of magic to every meal. This simple and quick recipe will win you over from the first try!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg of flour (preferably type 000 for a finer texture)
- 40 g of fresh yeast (or 14 g of dry yeast)
- 450 ml of lukewarm milk (you can also use plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or melted butter for a richer taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 egg yolk (for a golden glaze)
- Flax seeds (or any other preferred seeds, such as sesame or poppy)

A Bit of History:
Bread has been a staple in human nutrition for millennia, symbolizing not just food but also communion and family traditions. Flower Bread, with its attractive shape, is a modern reinterpretation of this delicious tradition. By simply changing the shape, we transform an ordinary loaf into a centerpiece on our table.

Step by Step for a Perfect Flower Bread:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This will help aerate the flour and contribute to a fluffier texture.

2. Activating the Yeast:
Gently warm the milk (do not boil it!) and add the sugar and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is an essential step to ensure the yeast is active.

3. Forming the Dough:
Add the milk and yeast mixture to the flour. Add the salt and oil. Use a spatula or your hands to combine the ingredients, then knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

4. Rising the Dough:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the Bread:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 pieces. Form one larger ball and seven smaller balls. Place the larger ball in the center of a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and arrange the smaller balls around it to form a flower.

6. Glazing and Seeds:
Beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of water and carefully brush the entire surface of the bread. Sprinkle flax seeds or other preferred seeds for added texture and an attractive appearance.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the bread for about 1 hour, or until it turns golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

8. Cooling:
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This will keep the crust crispy and the inside fluffy.

Serving Suggestions:
Flower Bread is perfect to be served warm, alongside butter and jam, or simply with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can slice it and serve it with cheese, olives, or cold cuts for a savory appetizer.

Variations and Tips:
- If you desire a different flavor, you can add dried herbs to the dough, such as oregano or rosemary.
- For a sweet version, you can replace the flax seeds with chopped nuts and a bit of cinnamon.
- Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye flour, for a unique taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This Flower Bread has about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the size of the slices. It is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, especially if you use whole flour. Additionally, flax seeds add omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast with about one-third of the amount.
- How can I store the bread? The bread keeps best in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
- What drinks pair well with this bread? A dry white wine or hot tea are excellent choices to accompany this delicacy.

Step into the kitchen and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking! Flower Bread will surely become a favorite recipe in your home, bringing joy and flavor every day. Don't forget to share the result with your loved ones and enjoy every fluffy and aromatic slice!