Poppy seed bread

Poppy Seed Bread – a sweet, fluffy, and aromatic delicacy that brings back childhood memories of moments spent with grandparents, where every slice was a joy. This recipe not only combines traditional flavors with the unmistakable scent of poppy seeds, but it is also easy to make, both with the help of a bread machine and manually. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful poppy seed bread!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-14 slices

Ingredients:
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- 2 eggs
- 120 g margarine (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 50 g sugar
- 500 g flour (preferably type 550, for a finer texture)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 g poppy seeds
- 2 teaspoons dry granulated yeast

The history of poppy seed bread is closely linked to ancient traditions, where poppy seeds were considered symbols of prosperity and well-being. They are used in various dishes, from pastries to breads, and bring a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the ingredients used.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature, except for the milk, which should be lukewarm. This will activate the yeast and help the dough rise.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk with the dry yeast and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is the sign that the yeast is active.

3. Adding the eggs and margarine: Add the beaten eggs and melted margarine (or butter) to the milk and yeast mixture. Mix well to combine everything.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the salt and poppy seeds. Add the wet ingredient mixture over the dry and mix with a spatula or with your hands until the dough starts to form.

5. Kneading: If using a bread machine, select program 8 – super quick bread of 1 kg. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a work surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. A useful tip is to use extra flour only if absolutely necessary to avoid sticking.

6. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

7. Shaping the bread: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two or three equal parts, depending on the desired size of the bread. Shape each part into the desired form (if you want a traditional bread, you can braid or fold it).

8. Second rise: Place the shaped bread in a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with oil. Cover again with a towel and let it rise for 30 minutes.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the bread for 50-60 minutes, or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

10. Cooling: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack. It is tempting to cut it immediately, but wait a few minutes to allow the flavors to stabilize.

Serving suggestions:
Poppy seed bread is delicious served warm, with butter or jam. You can also use it for sweet sandwiches, adding cottage cheese or chocolate spread. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a savory breakfast or a perfect snack.

Possible variations:
For an extra flavor boost, add a few drops of vanilla essence or lemon zest to the dough. You can also replace the poppy seeds with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a more decadent version.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, you can replace dry yeast with fresh yeast. Use about 15 g of fresh yeast.
- How can I keep the bread fresh? Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean towel at room temperature. Do not keep it in the fridge, as it may become dry.
- How long does the bread last? The bread can stay fresh for 3-4 days, and if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

Nutritional benefits:
This poppy seed bread is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, and the poppy seeds provide essential fatty acids, calcium, and antioxidants. The flour used also contributes to the fiber intake, which is essential for healthy digestion.

Calories:
A slice of poppy seed bread (approximately 50 g) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is a good choice for a nourishing breakfast or a delicious snack.

This poppy seed bread recipe is not just a way to reminisce about culinary traditions but also an opportunity to enjoy a dish made with love. Experiment, customize, and transform each slice into a little culinary joy!