Serbian/Balkan Lenten Bread Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
• STEP 2.Add water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
• STEP 3.Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• STEP 4.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
• STEP 5.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• STEP 6.Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a round loaf.
• STEP 7.Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
• STEP 8.Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
• STEP 9.Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure the water used for the dough is warm, but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
• You can brush the top of the bread with olive oil before baking to give it a shiny appearance.
• Serve the bread warm with spreads like hummus or olive tapenade for a delicious appetizer.

Storage and Serving

• Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To serve, slice the bread and enjoy it as a side dish with soups, stews, or salads.
• You can also use it as a base for sandwiches by adding your favorite fillings.