This Greek Country Bread recipe is a simple and delicious way to bake crusty, aromatic bread at home without kneading or long proofing times. The result is a beautifully soft bread with a crispy crust that everyone will love!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour (divided)
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves
Ingredients:
- Bread Flour: 500 g (4 cups), sifted
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Dry Yeast: 8 g (2 teaspoons)
- Warm Water: 400 ml (1 2/3 cups)
- Additional Flour: 100 g (¾ cup) for dusting
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift 500 g of bread flour.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 8 g of dry yeast. Mix well.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Pour in 400 ml of warm water and mix with a spatula until the dough becomes smooth and liquid.
- First Proof:
- Cover the bowl with cling film and a kitchen towel.
- Leave the dough to proof in a warm place for 40 minutes.
- Shape the Dough:
- Sprinkle a clean work surface with 100 g of flour.
- Pour the proofed dough onto the floured surface.
- Stretch the dough by pulling it gently to the sides.
- Fold the edges towards the center, repeating this process six times to create a soft, uniform dough.
- Divide and Shape:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts.
- Form each portion into a ball.
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Proof:
- Cover the dough balls with a kitchen towel and let them proof in a warm place for another 20 minutes.
- Score the Loaves:
- After the second proof, use a sharp knife to make decorative cuts on the surface of each dough ball.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
- Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a hearty meal.
- Use as a base for sandwiches or toast.
- Enjoy with butter and jam for a simple breakfast.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter for a rustic touch.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively.
- Use a bench scraper for easier handling of the sticky dough.
- For an extra crispy crust, place a tray of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
- Experiment with adding herbs or seeds to the dough for additional flavor.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to preserve its texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Flour: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Yeast: Contains B vitamins that support metabolism.
- Homemade Bread: Free of preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier choice.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made vegan if served without butter or other animal-based toppings.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approximate):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in a bread bag or airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze leftover bread for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- Easy, no-knead method perfect for beginners.
- Short proofing time compared to traditional bread recipes.
- Yields a crusty, aromatic loaf with soft, airy insides.
- Versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
- A fun and rewarding baking experience for the whole family.
Conclusion: This Greek Country Bread is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread. With its simple method and delightful results, it’s perfect for any occasion, from everyday meals to special gatherings. Happy baking and enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, but bread flour gives better structure and chewiness.
- How do I know if the dough has proofed enough? It should double in size and feel light and airy.
- Can I add herbs or seeds to the dough? Absolutely! Mix in your favorites like rosemary, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds.
- Can I bake this bread in a loaf pan? Yes, divide the dough and bake in greased loaf pans for a different shape.
- What if my dough is too sticky to handle? Dust your hands and surface with additional flour to make it manageable.
- How do I store leftover bread? Wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Can I freeze the dough instead of baking it right away? Yes, freeze after shaping, then thaw and proof before baking.
- What makes this bread “Greek”? The simple ingredients and rustic preparation are inspired by traditional Greek baking methods.
- Can I bake this bread in a Dutch oven? Yes, for a crustier loaf, bake in a preheated Dutch oven with the lid on for the first 20 minutes, then remove the lid.
- Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, use about 25 g of fresh yeast dissolved in warm water.