ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions for Puff Bread with Dill and Parsley
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in the dough.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by the olive oil, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
- Stir the ingredients together with a spoon until a dough begins to form. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together in a soft ball. If it’s too dry, add a splash more water.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky, but not sticky. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough if you prefer.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
- Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. You can also let it rise longer if you have the time—it will make the bread fluffier and more flavorful.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 4 equal portions (for small individual breads) or 1 large portion (for a single loaf).
- Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten them slightly with your hands or a rolling pin to form discs about 1/2 inch thick. You can make the bread as thick or as thin as you like, but keep in mind that thicker dough will puff more during baking.
6. Cook the Bread:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Once the pan is hot, carefully place one disc of dough into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and puffs up. You may notice the bread puffing as it cooks—this is a sign of the perfect texture!
- Repeat the process for the remaining dough portions, adding more oil to the pan as needed. You can also cook multiple discs at once if your skillet is large enough.
7. Serve:
- Once all the puff breads are cooked, transfer them to a plate and brush them with a little extra olive oil for a glossy finish. Optionally, sprinkle with a little more dill or parsley for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve the bread warm with your favorite dishes. It’s perfect for dipping in hummus, tzatziki, or alongside a hearty soup or salad.
Tips for the Best Puff Bread with Dill and Parsley
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs will work in a pinch, fresh dill and parsley provide the best flavor and aroma. If you don’t have fresh herbs, use about half the amount of dried herbs.
- Custom Flavor Add-ins: Feel free to customize the flavor of your puff bread. Add garlic powder, lemon zest, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. The dough is quite versatile!
- Check for Proper Heat: Make sure your pan is at the right temperature before adding the dough. If the heat is too low, the bread will cook too slowly and may turn out tough. If it’s too high, it may burn on the outside before fully cooking on the inside.
- Make it a Meal: This puff bread makes a wonderful base for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Try topping it with feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes, or serve it as a side with grilled meats or a rich lentil stew.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm the bread in a skillet for a minute on each side to bring back the softness.
Why This Puff Bread Recipe is a Must-Try
Puff Bread with Dill and Parsley is a deliciously soft, herby bread that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. The combination of fresh herbs and light, fluffy texture makes it a fantastic accompaniment to soups, stews, salads, or even just enjoyed with a bit of butter or olive oil. Its versatility makes it a winner in any kitchen, whether you’re serving it at a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or a festive occasion.
The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this bread an ideal choice for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone hungry! So next time you want a homemade bread that’s a little different and packed with flavor, give this Puff Bread with Dill and Parsley a try.
It’s fluffy, it’s flavorful, and it’s guaranteed to impress!
ADVERTISEMENT
