Bread has been a staple food in cultures worldwide for centuries. Whether it’s a symbol of comfort, nourishment, or tradition, the act of making bread has always been tied to time and patience. However, in today’s fast-paced world, not everyone has the time to wait for dough to rise and bake in an oven. What if you could enjoy fresh, delicious bread in just 10 minutes, without the need for an oven? This recipe does just that! Quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful, this bread is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Let’s dive into the process that will revolutionize your kitchen routine.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 17 oz (480 g) plain flour – The base for the bread, plain flour gives the right texture to create soft, pillowy bread.
- 7.8 oz (220 g) white yogurt – Provides moisture and adds a tangy flavor that enhances the bread’s richness.
- 6.8 fl oz (200 ml) water – Helps bring the dough together and ensures the right consistency.
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) baking powder – The leavening agent to make this bread rise without needing yeast or an oven.
- 1 teaspoon oil – Makes the dough easier to handle and prevents it from sticking to your hands and bowl.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances the flavors of the bread.
- 3.5 oz (100 g) butter – Adds richness and flavor, creating a luxurious taste.
- Parsley (to taste) – Adds freshness and a herbaceous note, complementing the richness of the butter.
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
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Combine Yogurt, Water, and Salt:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the white yogurt, add 200 ml of water, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until smooth and combine everything into a thin liquid. -
Mix in Flour and Baking Powder:
Sift the plain flour through a fine sieve to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour and baking powder into the yogurt mixture. Mix with your hands until the dough forms. It will be slightly sticky but manageable. -
Add Oil and Knead:
Pour in 1 teaspoon of oil and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a round loaf, ready for shaping into individual portions.
Step 2: Shaping the Dough
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Prepare the Surface:
Dust your work surface with some plain flour. Turn the dough out and lightly flour the top. Use your hands to flatten it into a pancake. -
Divide the Dough:
Cut the dough into two equal portions. Roll each piece with a rolling pin, and then divide each portion into five small pieces, resulting in 10 dough portions. -
Shape into Balls:
Shape each portion into a small ball and place them on a floured plate. Cover them with cling film to keep them from drying out.
Step 3: Rolling the Pancakes
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Flatten Each Ball:
Dust one dough ball with flour and flatten it with your hands. Use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin pancake about 10 to 12 centimeters in diameter. Set it aside and repeat the process with the remaining dough balls. -
Keep the Dough Moist:
Cover the unused dough balls with cling film to prevent them from drying out while you work on the others.
Step 4: Cooking the Bread
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Heat the Pan:
Heat a dry, shallow pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place as many of the rolled dough pancakes as the pan can comfortably fit. Do not overcrowd the pan. -
Cook the Pancakes:
Let the pancakes cook for about 1 minute. When the dough starts to harden and form a crust, flip the pancake to cook the other side. As they cook, the pancakes will puff up, creating fluffy, soft bread. -
Turn and Cook Evenly:
Keep turning the pancakes to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn. Once golden brown on both sides, remove the pancakes from the pan.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
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Melt the Butter:
In a small pan, melt the butter and mix in freshly chopped parsley. -
Butter the Bread:
Generously brush the melted butter mixture on both sides of each pancake. The butter adds richness, while the parsley adds a fresh, fragrant herb flavor to the bread.
Serving Suggestions
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With Soups or Salads:
These fluffy bread patties are a perfect accompaniment to a hearty soup or a fresh salad. Their texture complements both warm and cold dishes. -
For Sandwiches:
Use the bread as a base for sandwiches. Its soft, tender texture makes it an ideal substitute for traditional bread. -
Sweet Pairings:
Enjoy these patties with honey or jam for a quick, sweet snack or breakfast. Their neutral flavor is a great canvas for a variety of toppings. -
As a Side Dish:
Serve these bread patties with your favorite main dish. They work well alongside grilled meats, stews, and even vegetables.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for the plain flour. However, the texture may be slightly denser. You may need to add a little more water to achieve the desired dough consistency.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
This bread is best served fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also reheat them in a dry pan for a minute or two.
Can I add other herbs or seasonings to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to give the bread more flavor. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for a savory twist.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter. These oils will provide a different but equally delicious flavor.
How can I store the leftover bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to a month. To reheat, warm it in a pan or microwave.
Cooking Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like yogurt and butter at room temperature will make the dough easier to mix and knead.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading the dough can lead to a denser texture. Knead just enough to bring the dough together.
- Flour Your Rolling Pin: To prevent the dough from sticking, lightly flour your rolling pin before rolling out the dough.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Make sure the pan is hot but not too hot. Cooking on medium heat allows the dough to cook evenly and puff up without burning.
Variations
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Cheese and Herb Bread:
Add shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) and your favorite herbs to the dough. The cheese will melt into the bread, adding a savory richness. -
Sweet Bread:
For a sweet variation, add cinnamon, nutmeg, and a handful of raisins or chocolate chips to the dough. Top with a drizzle of honey after cooking for a dessert-like treat. -
Garlic and Parmesan:
Add garlic powder and parmesan cheese to the dough for a savory, Italian-inspired bread. Serve with pasta or a salad.
Conclusion
This 10-minute bread recipe is a quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying way to enjoy fresh homemade bread without the need for an oven or long prep times. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create soft, flavorful bread that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re making it as a side dish, a base for sandwiches, or a snack on its own, this bread is versatile and delicious. Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or sweet toppings to make this bread your own. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade bread in no time!