Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g bread flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dried yeast
- 300ml warm water
- 100g pitted black olives, chopped
- 200g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Special Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Baking tray
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, sugar, and dried yeast.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a clean, oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Leave to rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in the chopped olives and grated cheese.
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a greased baking tray.
8. Brush the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
9. Bake the ftira in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 200°C
Serving size:
- Serves 6-8 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer.
- You can substitute black olives with green olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
- Knead the dough well to activate the gluten and create a light, airy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, to ensure it doubles in size.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the ftira in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, wrap the ftira in foil and place in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the ftira on a wooden board with a selection of cured meats and cheeses for a rustic platter.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough doesn't rise, it may be too cold. Place it in a warmer spot and try again.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Check the expiry date on the yeast before using.
Food History:
- Ftira is a traditional Maltese bread that is often served with a variety of toppings.
Flavor Profiles:
- The cheese and olives give this ftira a salty, savory flavor that pairs well with the bread's light, fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the ftira warm with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Maltese