Muffuletta Bread

Get ready to chop, stir, and bake your way to the delicious Muffuletta Bread straight out of the big leagues of the Italian kitchen. This Italian delicacy, often served during family get-togethers or festive occasions, is a heartwarming accompaniment to any meal. It’s soft, slightly crumbly texture, coupled with its distinctly aromatic hint of oregano and basil, is more than enough to have your tongues dancing with delight.

Intriguing, isn’t it? But, what makes it such a star? Muffuletta Bread seamlessly blends classic Mediterranean flavours, creating a harmonious symphony that’s hard to resist. Marrying traditional cooking techniques and ingredients, it’s truly a labor of love that never fails to impress. Now, let’s dive straight into making this fab dish, one that all bread lovers are bound to melt for.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: One 12-inch loaf

Now that we���ve prepped, let’s gather up those ingredients and start baking a loaf of pure goodness!

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 2 cups Bread Flour
• 1 tablespoon Active Dry Yeast
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 1 cup Warm Water (110 to 115 degrees F)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• Sesame Seeds (optional)

Important Equipment: Stand Mixer, Dough Hook, Oven, Baking Parchment, Large Mixing Bowl

The active dry yeast is crucial for the fluffy rise of your loaf. The bread flour brings in that classic bread-y taste and aroma; while the olive oil adds a light Italian zest. If you can’t find bread flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour.

How To Make Muffuletta Bread

1. Combine yeast, sugar and warm water in a mixing bowl and stir till it’s all dissolved. Leave it to activate for about 10 minutes.
2. In your stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the dry ingredients. Add olive oil and knead with the dough hook attachment for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and keep it in a warm area to rise for about 2 hours.
4. Preheat the oven at 190C. Punch down your dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it onto a parchment-lined baking tray and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you’d like.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing.

Tips For The Best Results

• Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• Sprinkle some flour on the top for a nice rustic look.

Storage Tips

• Store it in a bread box or airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.
• Freeze sliced portions for instant access when cravings strike!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A: Yes, you can. Use the same amount and add it directly to the flour.

Q: Why is my dough not rising?

A: This might be due to old yeast or the temperature of the water was not correct.

Q: Can I replace olive oil with another oil?

A: Yes, but olive oil adds a great flavor. If you must replace it, use a neutral-flavored oil.

Q: Can I freeze the dough for later?

A: Yes, you can freeze the dough. Make sure to let it rise before freezing.

Q: My bread is too hard, why is this?

A: It might be baked for too long, or the dough was kneaded too much.

Nutritional Facts of Muffuletta Bread

Per Serving: 144 calories; 3.6 g fat; 24.5 g carbohydrates; 3.7 g protein; 0 mg cholesterol; 470 mg sodium.

To finish off, let me just say that the Muffuletta Bread is an Italian gem that sparkles with every mouthful, leaving a trail of comfort and warmth in your belly. Paired with a nice cup of coffee or enjoyed just as it is, this bread is a stunner on any occasion, be it a lazy brunch or a festive feast. Now go on and bake up a storm, bread maestros!