Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water
- 4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour
Directions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Create a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture.
- Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls. Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray or into a loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.
- Use for sandwiches or paninis with your favorite fillings.
- Toast slices and enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast.
- Serve as a side with pasta dishes or dips like hummus and tzatziki.
Cooking Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
- For a crusty top, brush the dough with water or olive oil before baking.
- Add herbs or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to avoid squishing the loaf.
Nutritional Benefits
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Yeast: Provides a good source of B vitamins.
- Flour: Offers energy-rich carbohydrates.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based olive oil.
- Contains gluten.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Enjoy!