Ingredients

36 ounces flour
1 cup butter
2 tablespoons grated orange rind
6 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons yeast
1/2 cup lukewarm water
sesame seeds ( optional )
colored hardboiled egg ( optional )
Tsourekia is a Greek Easter bread featured prominently in the celebrations. It is a braided bread enriched with butter, eggs, sugar, and orange zest, yielding a decadent texture and flavor that has quickly become a staple for the holidays. The twisted braids are sprinkled with sesame seeds and colorful hard-boiled eggs before baking, giving this bread a distinct, festive appearance. Tsourekia is best enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea and makes a perfect addition to any dessert table.

Instructions

1.In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, butter, orange rind, eggs, sugar, and milk. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a dough.
2.Add the yeast and mix again. If the dough is too dry, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of lukewarm water.
3.Allow the dough to rest for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
4.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
5.Divide the dough into several pieces and braid them into the recognizable, twisted shape of tsourekia.
6.Place the braids onto a large baking sheet and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.
7.Use a pastry brush to brush some beaten egg on top of each tsoureki braid.
8.8. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and visual appeal (optional).
9.9. If desired, carefully push a colored hard-boiled egg into the dough on top of each tsoureki.
10.10. Bake the bread for 20-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top.

PROS

Tsourekia is a staple during the Greek Easter celebrations.
The bread is decadent, rich, and sweet, with a delicate flavor and a light texture.
It is excellent fresh out of the oven, toasted, or served with your favorite spread.

CONS

This bread is enriched with butter, sugar, and eggs, making it relatively high in calories, sugar, and fat.
While moderation is key, it is an occasional treat that is worth the indulgence.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While tsourekia is not a health food, it does provide some nutritional benefits. The bread contains protein and carbohydrates, necessary for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. It also contains essential minerals such as selenium, necessary for healthy thyroid function and immune system support.

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