Bread with olives and oat flakes

Olive and Oat Bread: The Aromatic Indulgence of Your Childhood

When it comes to the cold season, nothing compares to the unmistakable smell of freshly baked bread. Do you remember the days when your mom would bake four loaves, and their aroma would fill the house, making you feel at home? This recipe for olive and oat bread will bring those cherished memories back to life. It's simple, delicious, and healthy too! Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour + 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves

Ingredients:

- 700 g all-purpose flour
- 450 ml lukewarm water
- 60 g oats
- 100 g pitted black olives
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 heaping teaspoon salt
- 40 ml olive oil
- Sesame seeds for decoration

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Activating the yeast: Start by crumbling the fresh yeast into a small bowl. Add the sugar and mix it with a teaspoon until the yeast is completely dissolved. It's important to use lukewarm water, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Water that is too cold will slow down the rising process.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour, add the salt and oats. Combining these dry ingredients will ensure a uniform texture for your dough.

3. Forming the dough: Once the yeast is activated, add it to the bowl with flour. Begin mixing with a spoon, gradually pouring in the lukewarm water until the dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky. It's essential to add the water gradually to control the dough's consistency.

4. Incorporating the oil: When the dough is almost ready, add the olive oil and continue kneading until it is well incorporated. The oil not only adds flavor but also helps keep the bread moist.

5. Adding the olives: Slice the olives thinly and add them to the dough. Gently knead to distribute them evenly, but don't overdo it, or you'll break the olives!

6. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean, damp towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour or until the dough doubles in size. This is when the dough "comes to life."

7. Shaping the loaves: After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface. Turn the dough out and divide it into two equal parts. Take each piece and shape it into an elongated loaf.

8. Second rising: Place the loaves in two loaf pans. Let them rise for another 20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.

9. Preparing for baking: After the second rise, brush the loaves with a little water and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy and delicious finish.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 170-180 degrees Celsius and place the loaves inside. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown. A trick is to tap the bottom; if it sounds hollow, they're done!

11. Cooling: Once out of the oven, cover the loaves with two thick towels to prevent the crust from hardening. Let them cool slightly before slicing.

12. Serving: Slice the warm bread and enjoy it with butter or fresh cheese. Wrap any leftovers in foil to keep them from drying out.

Nutritional benefits:
This olive and oat bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The oats add fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. Olives are a good source of healthy fats, and using olive oil contributes to antioxidant intake.

To make this recipe even more interesting, you can add various herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for extra flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a richer taste and denser texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use about 14 g of dry yeast and dissolve it in lukewarm water, just as you would with fresh yeast.

2. How can I keep the bread longer?
Bread is best stored in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature. Avoid keeping it in the fridge, as it will dry out faster.

3. What drinks pair well with this bread?
Olive and oat bread pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a light blonde beer. Additionally, a cup of vegetable or tomato soup will perfectly complement a meal featuring this bread.

This olive and oat bread recipe is not just a delicious choice but also a way to reminisce about beautiful moments from your childhood. So, fire up the oven and treat your family to warm, freshly baked bread filled with flavors and memories! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 700 g flour, 450 ml water, 60 g oats, 100 g pitted black olives, 40 g fresh yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 40 ml oil, sesame

 Tags:  bread with olives and oats bread oats olives bread recipes