Ingredients

21 1/4 ounces unbleached all-purpose flour , plus more as needed
1 3/4 teaspoons table salt
3/4 3/4 teaspoon fast rising yeast or 3/4 teaspoon bread machine yeast
2 cups ice water , plus more if needed
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallion tops
1/4 cup good-quality olive oil , plus more for brushing dough tops
1/4 cup chopped kalamata olive ( drain well before chopping )
3 tablespoons cornmeal , for dusting baking pot
Herbed Olive Bread, Cyprus-Style is a delicious bread recipe that originated in Cyprus, an island country situated in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. This bread is vegan, made with olive oil and a mixture of herbs which give the recipe a unique flavor and aroma. This bread can be enjoyed alongside meals, used for sandwiches, and dipped in olive oil or hummus. The recipe requires a cast-iron pot for baking, which can help to create a crispy crust and soft interior. The key to making this bread is to follow the recipe carefully and allow enough time for the dough to rise and the bread to bake.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2.Stir in ice water and mix until all flour is absorbed and sticky dough forms.
3.Stir in cilantro, mint, chives, olive oil, and chopped olives.
4.Lightly flour work surface and dump the dough out.
5.Knead the dough lightly until it’s smooth, around 2 minutes.
6.Fold the dough into a ball and place inside a large mixing bowl.
7.Cover the dough with a dishcloth, let it rest at room temperature for around 2 hours.
8.Preheat oven and cast-iron pot to 475°F.
9.Dust the work surface with cornmeal and dump the dough on it.
10.Cut dough in half, making two loaves and place them in the preheated pot.
11.Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 25 minutes.
12.Uncover and bake for additional 20 minutes until bread is golden brown.
13.Remove from oven and let it cool before slicing.

PROS

The recipe is easy to follow and results in a delicious bread with a crispy crust.

This bread is vegan and can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions.

It can be served alongside a variety of dishes or enjoyed alone.

CONS

This recipe requires a cast-iron pot to be baked in, which some may not have access to.

The recipe requires time, patience, and follow-through to be successful.

The nutritional information is not provided in this recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This bread contains olive oil which may help regulate insulin levels, high in unsaturated fats, and antioxidants which can help to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic disease. The herbs used in this recipe have beneficial properties as well including supporting blood circulation and improving digestion.

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