Little flower with sesame

Sesame Bread Recipe - Delicious Flower

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 slices

Sesame bread, also known as sesame flower, is a traditional dish full of flavor and texture, enjoyed in many cultures over time. This recipe will not only enrich your meal but will also fill your home with the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread. Whether served warm with butter or as an accompaniment to soup, this bread will surely become your family's favorite.

Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 200 ml milk (heated)
- 120 ml water (warm)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 500 g flour (type 000, for a fine texture)
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast
- Sesame seeds (for decoration)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the bread)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the dough:
- Start by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help activate the yeast.
- In the bread machine bowl, add the salt, sugar, warm milk, and water in order. The milk and water mixture will help the yeast activate faster.
- Then add the eggs, flour, and dry yeast.
- Select the dough program on the bread machine and start it. This will knead the dough and let it rise.

2. First rising:
- Once the program is complete, remove the dough from the bowl and place it in a clean bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 45 minutes).
- A good tip is to check if the dough is ready by gently pressing with your finger; if it leaves an imprint, it's time to take it out.

3. Shaping the flower:
- On a floured work surface, take the risen dough and divide it into 11 equal balls.
- Place the balls in a round baking tray lined with parchment paper, putting one row around the edge, spaced apart, and one in the center.
- From one ball, make two rolls that you join at one end, then braid them to form a cord. Carefully place it between the balls on the edge and the one in the center.

4. Second rising:
- Cover the tray again with a towel and let it rise until the balls join (about 30 minutes). It's essential for the dough to have room to rise, so make sure you have enough space.

5. Preparing for baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Brush the entire surface of the bread with the egg yolk to give it a golden and appetizing glaze. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, which will add extra flavor and texture.

6. Baking:
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is nicely browned and sounds hollow when you tap it gently on the bottom.
- When done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack.

Practical Tips:
- The bread can be served warm: It is delicious with butter or fresh cheese.
- Variations: You can add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary to the dough for extra flavor.
- Maintaining sesame seeds: If you prefer, you can also use other seeds like flax or chia to add variety.
- Perfect pairings: This bread pairs perfectly with a cream of vegetable soup or a cheese platter.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why use warm water?: Warm water helps activate the yeast, leading to better dough rising.
- Can I use whole wheat flour?: Yes, but you will need to adjust the liquid proportions as whole wheat flour absorbs more water.
- How can I tell if the bread is baked?: Gently tap the bottom of the bread; a hollow sound is a sign that it is ready.

This sesame bread recipe is not just a delicious choice but also a delightful cooking activity that can be shared with loved ones. Making bread at home is an experience that brings joy, and its aroma will make you feel like a true kitchen master. Enjoy every bite and share this delicacy with your loved ones!