This Dill and Sesame Bread is a soft, flavorful, and aromatic bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or as a side for soups and stews. The addition of fresh dill and sesame seeds gives it a unique and delightful taste.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 400 ml milk, warmed
- 600 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 2 tablespoons (26 g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon (8 g) yeast
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds, for topping
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add the salt, finely chopped dill, and flour gradually, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Bread:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Shape it into a loaf or round form as desired.
- Place the shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, make an incision or shallow cuts on the surface of the dough for decoration.
Add Toppings:
- Brush the top of the dough with a little milk or water.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top.
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Bake the bread for 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
- Serve as a side with soups, stews, or salads.
- Use for sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Add more dill or mix in other herbs like parsley for a stronger flavor.
- For a crunchier crust, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Dill adds antioxidants and a fresh, unique flavor.
- Sesame seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
- Yeast and flour give a soft texture and make this bread a great energy source.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
Storage
- Store the bread in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Dill and Sesame Bread is soft, fragrant, and versatile. The fresh dill adds a subtle herbal flavor, while the sesame seeds give it a nutty crunch. It’s easy to make, and its delightful aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes.
Conclusion
Dill and Sesame Bread is a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own, as part of a sandwich, or alongside your favorite soup, this bread is sure to impress. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a must-try recipe for bread lovers!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dry dill instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill as a substitute for fresh dill. - Can I replace sesame seeds with another topping?
Yes, poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or even coarse sea salt work as great alternatives. - How do I know if the yeast is active?
The yeast mixture should become frothy and bubbly within 5-10 minutes. If not, the yeast may be inactive. - Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the bread will be denser. Use a 50:50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balanced texture. - Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread baking. - How can I make the crust softer?
Brush the bread with butter or oil immediately after baking. - Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Add garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor. - Can I knead the dough in a stand mixer?
Yes, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5-6 minutes. - What can I pair this bread with?
It pairs well with creamy soups, fresh salads, or grilled meats. - Can I freeze the dough instead of baking immediately?
Yes, freeze the shaped dough before the final rise. Thaw and let rise before baking.