Soft and Chewy Balkan Bread

Learn how to make soft and chewy Balkan bread, a traditional bread recipe from the Balkan region. This bread is deliciously soft on the inside with a slightly chewy crust. It is perfect for sandwiches or served with soups and stews. Follow this step-by-step recipe to recreate the authentic flavors of the Balkans in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 300ml warm water

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
2. Pour the olive oil and warm water into the well. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf or desired shape.
7. Place the shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts