Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm milk
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cardamom, nutmeg, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, water, eggs, melted butter, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
3. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.
4. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and shape each piece into a braid.
9. Place the braids on the prepared baking sheet and brush with the egg wash.
10. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and almonds.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 590
Fat: 27 g
Carbohydrates: 73 g
Protein: 10 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Milk: almond milk or coconut milk
- Butter: coconut oil or olive oil
- Orange zest: lemon zest
- Sesame seeds: poppy seeds or sunflower seeds
- Almonds: walnuts or pecans
Variations:
- Add dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries
- Replace the cardamom and nutmeg with other spices such as cinnamon or allspice
- Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar for a sweeter flavor
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the milk and water are warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a soft and fluffy texture
- Brush the dough with an egg wash before baking for a golden brown color
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the tsoureki with a dollop of Greek yogurt or honey for added sweetness.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of ouzo.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a Greek salad or a plate of olives and feta cheese.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- Make sure the milk and water are not too hot when adding to the dough
Food History:
Tsoureki is a traditional Greek Easter bread, usually served with a red-dyed hard-boiled egg. It is believed to have originated in the Byzantine era and is still popular today.
Flavor Profiles:
This tsoureki is fragrant and flavorful, with notes of cardamom, nutmeg, orange, and vanilla.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an accompaniment to a Greek meal or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Region: Greek