Ingredients

1 large potato
2 tablespoons sugar
1 package active dry yeast
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter
3 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
4 cups flour ( or more )
Pao Doce, or Portuguese Sweet Bread, is a traditional bread from Portugal that is often eaten during festive occasions such as Easter, Christmas, weddings, and baptisms. It is also a popular breakfast food, served with coffee or hot chocolate. This bread is known for its soft and sweet texture, thanks to the combination of potatoes, sugar, and butter. The bread has a beautiful golden color and a fragrant aroma, making it irresistible to both locals and tourists. Every family has its recipe for Pao Doce, and there are variations in texture, flavor, and shape. Some people add cinnamon, orange zest, or vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor. Others shape the dough into buns, rolls, or braids for a fancy presentation.

Instructions

1.Peel and cube the potato and boil until soft, then mash with a fork or potato masher.
2.Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and stir.
3.In another bowl, mix yeast and milk together and set aside for 5 minutes.
4.Add the potato mixture, salt, butter, eggs, and sugar to the yeast mixture and mix well.
5.Gradually add flour, about 1 cup at a time, and knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
6.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm place.
7.Punch down the dough and divide it into two or four pieces.
8.Knead each piece and shape it into a round loaf.
9.Place the loaves on a baking sheet and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
10.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.

PROS

Sweet, soft, and fluffy Pao Doce is perfect for a breakfast or a snack.

It can be eaten as it is or paired with cheese, butter, or jam.

It can also be used to make French toast, bread pudding, or other desserts.

CONS

Pao Doce contains sugar, butter, and eggs, which make it high in calories and fat.

It is a sweet bread and may not be suitable for those who prefer savory bread or have a low-sugar diet.

It may also be challenging for beginners to make because of the yeast and kneading process.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Pao Doce is not a health food, but it can provide energy and enjoyment in moderation.
The potato in this recipe adds moisture and fiber to the bread, and the eggs provide protein and vitamins.
The yeast may also have probiotic and immune-boosting effects, though more research is needed.

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