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Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, olive oil (or melted butter), and water to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a splash more water, a little at a time. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is essential for creating that fluffy, soft texture.
4. Shape the Dough:
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions (or more, depending on the size of bread you want). Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick. You can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
5. Cook the Bread on the Stovetop:
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place one of the dough discs onto the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat inside, and cook for 3-5 minutes. Check the bread by flipping it; it should be golden brown and lightly crisp on both sides. If needed, lower the heat to prevent burning.
6. Flip and Cook the Other Side:
Flip the bread and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes, until it’s golden and fully cooked through. The bread should puff up slightly as it cooks.
7. Repeat and Serve:
Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions, ensuring each piece gets evenly cooked. If you’d like, brush each piece of bread with a little melted butter or olive oil as it cooks to give it a glossy finish and added flavor.
Optional Variations:
- Herb and Garlic Bread: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano) and minced garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
- Cheese Bread: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the dough before kneading. The cheese will melt into the bread, giving it a deliciously gooey texture.
- Sweet Bread: For a sweeter version, increase the sugar and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the dough.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for Dipping: Serve this bread warm with your favorite dips, such as hummus, guacamole, or a rich curry.
- Make Sandwiches: Slice it and use it to make simple sandwiches. This bread’s fluffy texture is perfect for holding your fillings without falling apart.
- Serve with Soup or Stew: Pair it with a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal. The bread will soak up all the delicious flavors of your dish.
- Breakfast Treat: Top with butter, jam, or honey for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Tips for Perfect Stovetop Bread:
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overkneading the dough can lead to dense bread. Knead just enough to bring everything together and form a smooth dough.
- Use a Heavy Pan: A non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best for even cooking. A heavier pan retains heat more efficiently, ensuring that the bread cooks evenly.
- Keep the Heat Low to Medium: If the heat is too high, the bread might burn before cooking through. Make sure to keep the heat at medium to cook the bread gently and evenly.
Conclusion:
This No-Oven Stovetop Bread is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy homemade bread without the hassle of preheating an oven. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy soft, fluffy bread that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, dipping it in soup, or simply enjoying it with a bit of butter, this recipe is a keeper you won’t want to lose. Give it a try, and you’ll be making stovetop bread on a regular basis!
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