Serene
Culinary Explorer
Try my bread recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Add the salt, olive oil, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
- Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread Bowls:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on the size of bread bowls you want.
- Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the dough balls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, until they have puffed up.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Egg Wash (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the dough balls with the egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake the Bread Bowls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread bowls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Hollow Out:
- Allow the bread bowls to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut a circle out of the top of each bread bowl. Scoop out the insides, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick shell.
Tips:
- The insides of the bread bowls can be saved to make croutons or breadcrumbs.
- Fill the bread bowls with your favorite soup, chowder, or dip. Enjoy!