If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to start your day, this breakfast bread recipe is a must-try. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create soft and flavorful flatbreads that are perfect for any meal. The combination of warm water, dry yeast, and a touch of sugar ensures a beautifully risen dough, while a sprinkle of cornmeal and a drizzle of olive oil add the perfect finishing touches. Whether you’re serving them with your favorite spreads, soups, or salads, these flatbreads are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 500 ml warm water
- 1 packet dry yeast (10 g)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 600-650 g flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Cornmeal (for sprinkling)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Stir until the yeast dissolves and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Gradually add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to form a soft, sticky dough.
- Wet your hands and roll the dough into a ball. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it ferment for 25 minutes.
First Fermentation:
- After 25 minutes, lubricate your hands with a little oil and gently fold the dough inwards to release the gas. Cover and let it ferment again at room temperature (around 30°C) for 20 minutes.
Second Fermentation:
- After 20 minutes, fold the dough again and let it ferment for another 10 minutes.
Final Fermentation:
- Cover the dough and let it ferment for 1 hour. This is the ideal fermentation time for a successful dough.
Shape the Dough:
- Dust your work surface with flour and divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
- Roll each part into a ball and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Press each ball of dough to flatten and enlarge them, working with flour to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle cornmeal on the work surface and on top of the dough.
- Drizzle each flattened dough with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Press the dough with your fingertips to enlarge and shape it further.
Bake the Flatbread:
- Preheat your oven to the maximum temperature.
- Place the flattened dough on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
Serve:
- Wrap the freshly baked flatbread in a clean cloth to keep it soft.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Additional Information:
Nutritional Benefits:
This breakfast bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Yeast: Provides B vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy metabolism.
- Flour: A good source of carbohydrates and protein, providing energy and supporting muscle health.
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health.
Variations:
Feel free to customize this bread to suit your taste preferences:
- Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
- Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds on top of the dough before baking for added texture and nutrition.
- Cheese: Mix in some grated cheese into the dough or sprinkle on top for a cheesy flatbread.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile flatbread can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Breakfast: Serve with butter, jam, or honey for a simple yet delicious breakfast.
- Lunch: Pair with a hearty soup or salad for a satisfying meal.
- Snack: Enjoy as a snack with your favorite dips or spreads.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze baked flatbreads in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Tips for Perfect Flatbread:
- Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Ferment Properly: Allow enough time for the dough to ferment and rise to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Even Thickness: Roll out the dough to an even thickness for uniform baking.
FAQ:
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What can I use instead of cornmeal?
You can use semolina or breadcrumbs as a substitute for cornmeal.
Conclusion:
This breakfast bread is incredibly simple and fast to make, yet delivers a delicious and satisfying result. With its soft and fluffy texture, it’s perfect for any meal or snack. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful bread with your family and friends, and savor the taste of homemade goodness!