Black bread with olives and cheese

Black bread with olives and cheese

Today I propose a delicious recipe for black bread with olives and cheese, which will not only fill your home with an inviting aroma but also bring a touch of flavor to your table. This bread is perfect for a healthy breakfast or a savory snack alongside good cheese or quality cold cuts. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour (approximately)
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12 slices (depending on thickness of the cut)

Ingredients:
- 1 kg black flour
- 500 g white flour
- 250 g oats
- 250 g pitted olives
- 200 g grated cheese
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons salt
- 50 g fresh yeast
- Warm water (approximately 500 ml, adjust as needed)

The story behind the recipe

Bread is a fundamental food in many cultures, symbolizing not only sustainability but also communion. Black bread, in particular, has often been made from whole grains, offering superior nutrition and a deeper flavor. The combination of salty olives and creamy cheese brings a savory taste, perfect for any meal. This version of bread with olives and cheese is a modern reinterpretation that blends tradition with innovation.

Step by step for guaranteed success

1. Activating the yeast: Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in a small bowl, adding 200 ml of warm water (not hot, as it will kill the yeast), one tablespoon of flour, and one teaspoon of salt. Gently mix and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.

2. Preparing the ingredients: In the meantime, take the olives and slice them (you can choose green or black olives, according to your preference). Grate the cheese (a mature cheese will provide a more intense flavor, while a younger one will be creamier). Sift the flour into a large bowl to aerate the ingredient and achieve a fluffy bread.

3. Mixing the dough: Add the activated yeast to the bowl with flour and gently mix with a fork. Then, add the beaten eggs, grated cheese, oats, and sliced olives. Mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Kneading: Gradually add warm water until the dough becomes elastic and non-sticky. This may vary depending on the humidity in the air and the type of flour used. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a food processor, you can use the kneading attachment to make your work easier.

5. First rising: Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in volume. Now is the perfect time to enrich your recipe with various herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, for added flavor.

6. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and gently knead it to eliminate air. You can form one large loaf or several small ones, according to your preferences. If desired, you can add an extra filling of cheese or olives inside the bread for a pleasant surprise when sliced.

7. Second rising: Place the shaped bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover again with a towel and let it rise for 30 minutes. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 200°C.

8. Baking: Once the bread has risen again, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, until it turns golden and sounds hollow when lightly tapped on the bottom.

9. Cooling: After baking, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack. This will help maintain the perfect texture.

Serving suggestions

This black bread with olives and cheese is wonderful served warm, with butter or olive oil, but can also be accompanied by vegetable soup or a fresh salad. You can also use it for delicious sandwiches filled with prosciutto, goat cheese, and tomatoes.

Interesting variations

1. Herb bread: Add oregano or rosemary to the dough for extra aroma.
2. Stuffed olives: You can use olives stuffed with peppers or garlic to intensify the flavor.
3. Nuts and seeds: Add nuts or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use 15 g of dry yeast and follow the same steps.

2. How can I tell when the bread is baked?
The bread is ready when it has a golden crust, and if you lightly tap the bottom, it sounds hollow.

3. How long does it keep?
This bread stores well at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.

Nutritional benefits

This black bread is rich in fiber due to the whole flour and oats, which aid digestion. The olives add healthy fats, while the cheese provides protein and calcium. It is an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle!

In conclusion, making this black bread with olives and cheese is a pleasant activity that will reward you with a delicious final product. Experiment with the ingredients and don't hesitate to add personal touches to your recipe. Enjoy every slice and savor the moment!

 Ingredients: 1 kg black flour, 500 g white flour, 250 g oat flakes, 250 g pitted olives, 200 g cheese, 2 eggs, 3 tablespoons salt, 50 g yeast, water

 Tags:  bread with olives