Mediterranean flavored bread

Mediterranean Scented Bread - A Tasty and Aromatic Recipe

When it comes to making bread, there’s nothing more comforting and satisfying than enjoying a slice of freshly baked bread with an enticing aroma that reminds you of the warmth of the sun and Mediterranean flavors. This Mediterranean scented bread recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and you can easily prepare it at home. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for breakfast or as an accompaniment to other dishes. Let’s get started!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 10-12 slices

Ingredients

- 500 g whole wheat flour
- 500 g white flour
- 300 ml warm milk
- 300 ml warm water
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of ground rosemary
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg for brushing

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Starter
In a small bowl, crumble the fresh yeast and add 100 ml of warm milk mixed with sugar and 100 ml of warm water. Stir gently until smooth and let the starter sit for 15 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This step is essential as the yeast needs a warm and slightly sweet environment to activate fermentation.

2. Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift the white and whole wheat flour, adding the salt and rosemary. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated starter. Sprinkle a little flour over the starter to protect it from the air. Let it sit for a few minutes to activate.

3. Forming the Dough
Gradually add the remaining warm milk and water, mixing with a spatula or your hands, bringing the flour from the edges towards the center. It’s important to adjust the amount of liquid as flours can absorb moisture differently. Continue mixing until you obtain a dough that is easy to knead and non-sticky.

4. Kneading the Dough
Add the two tablespoons of olive oil and knead the dough for 5-6 minutes. The dough should be elastic and smooth. If it remains sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. Rising the Dough
Place the dough in a large round greased bowl and dusted with flour. Cut a cross on top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

6. Baking the Bread
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Once the dough has risen, brush it with the beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust. Bake the bread for about 30 minutes, or until it is beautifully browned. You can check if it’s baked using the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.

7. Cooling the Bread
After baking, remove the bread from the oven and the pan, letting it cool on a rack or in a cotton towel. This step helps maintain the crunchy texture of the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean scented bread is delicious served warm, alongside extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I also recommend serving it with feta cheese, green olives, or cherry tomatoes for a perfect breakfast or tasty appetizer. It can also be paired with Mediterranean soups or stews, adding a burst of flavor to the meal.

Variations and Tips

If you want to experiment, you can add black or green olives to the dough for extra flavor and texture. You can also try replacing rosemary with oregano or basil to achieve different aromas. Additionally, you can use whole grain flour or a combination of white and rye flour for a healthier bread.

Nutritional Benefits

This bread is rich in fiber, thanks to the whole grain flour, and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. Plus, it provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, ensuring energy throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I use fresh yeast?
Fresh yeast provides a fresher taste and better texture compared to dry yeast. However, if you don’t have fresh yeast on hand, you can use dry yeast – 15 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 50 g of fresh yeast.

2. Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, the bread can be frozen. You can slice it and freeze the slices in an airtight bag. When you want to consume it, let it thaw at room temperature.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add sesame, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrients.

I hope this Mediterranean scented bread recipe brings you joy and warmth in the kitchen. With each fresh slice, you will not only enjoy a delicious dish but also create pleasant memories with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!