17 Portuguese Country Bread Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 9, 2024
Portuguese country bread, also known as pão de campo, is a traditional bread recipe that has been passed down through generations in Portugal. This rustic bread is beloved for its crunchy crust and chewy interior, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. While the recipe may vary from region to region, the essence of this bread remains the same – simple, wholesome and delicious. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients and techniques used to create this mouth-watering bread, so that you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
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Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
The Ingredients
The key to making the perfect Portuguese country bread lies in the quality of the ingredients used. Flour is the main component of this recipe, and it is important to use a high-quality flour with a protein content of at least 11.5%. This will ensure that the bread has a good structure and a chewy texture. Yeast is another crucial ingredient, as it is responsible for the rise and flavor of the bread. While fresh yeast is traditionally used in this recipe, you can also use active dry yeast or instant yeast for convenience. Other ingredients include salt for flavor and water to bring the dough together.
The Technique
The process of making Portuguese country bread is simple, but it requires time and patience. The first step is to mix the flour, yeast, salt, and water together to form a rough dough. This is then left to rest for 30 minutes, allowing the gluten to develop and making the dough easier to work with. Next, the dough is kneaded for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This is an important step as it helps to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its chewy texture. The dough is then left to rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, it is shaped into a round loaf and placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Before baking, the top of the bread is slashed with a sharp knife to create a decorative pattern, which also allows the bread to expand during baking. The bread is then baked in a preheated oven at a high temperature for 30-40 minutes, resulting in a beautiful golden crust. The bread is cooled on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
In conclusion, Portuguese country bread is a simple yet delicious recipe that has stood the test of time. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create your own version of this rustic bread at home. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade pão de campo?