Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix on low speed until combined.
2. Add warm water and olive oil to the bowl and mix on low speed until a dough forms.
3. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Add chopped olives, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and oregano to the dough. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Use your hands to shape the dough into a round or oval shape.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
11. Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 700mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pitted olives in place of Kalamata olives.
- You can use any type of crumbled cheese in place of feta cheese.
- You can use dried herbs in place of fresh herbs, but reduce the amount by half.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the dough for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a little more water.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm place, such as near a window or in a warm oven, will help it rise faster.
- To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf. If it sounds hollow, it's ready.
Storage instructions:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the bread for up to 1 month. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bread, wrap it in foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the bread on a wooden cutting board or platter.
- Sprinkle extra chopped herbs on top for a pop of color.
- Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano.
- Sliced olives or cherry tomatoes.
- Crumbled cheese.
Pairings:
- Serve with a charcuterie board or cheese plate.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Hummus and pita bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread doesn't rise, the yeast may be old or the water may have been too hot.
- If the bread is too dense, it may have been over-kneaded or not allowed to rise enough.
- If the bread is too dry, reduce the baking time or add a little more olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with the dough to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Make sure the bread is cooked to an internal temperature of 190°F to ensure it's safe to eat.
Food history:
- Olive bread is a traditional Mediterranean dish that dates back centuries. It's often served as an appetizer or snack.
Flavor profiles:
- This bread is savory and salty, with a slight tang from the feta cheese and olives. The herbs add a fresh, earthy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bread warm or at room temperature.
- Slice it into wedges or thin slices for easy serving.
- Serve with a side of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Greek