Greek Cheese Bread: A Heavenly Recipe for Soft Feta Bread – Perfect for Any Occasion!
Ingredients:
- 250 g feta cheese
- 550 g flour
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 300 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the feta: Crumble the feta cheese into a bowl so it can be evenly distributed throughout the bread later.
- Activate the yeast: In another bowl, mix the warm water with the dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until a foamy layer forms—this means the yeast is activated!
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic—consider this a little workout for your arms!
- Incorporate the feta: Gently knead the crumbled feta into the dough, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Let it rise: Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rest in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Shape the bread: Form the dough into a loaf or roll and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread!
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Enjoy baking and bon appétit!
FAQs for Greek Cheese Bread (Feta Bread)
1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes! Replace the dry yeast with 21 g of fresh yeast. Dissolve it in the warm water before mixing it with the flour.
2. Can I substitute feta with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta gives the bread its signature tangy flavor, you can use ricotta, goat cheese, or even crumbled blue cheese for a different twist.
3. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow. You can also insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
4. Can I add herbs or other ingredients to the dough?
Yes! Fresh or dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme pair well with feta. You can also add black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
5. How should I store this bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
6. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend, but note that the texture may be slightly different. You may also need to adjust the water content.
7. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to add a little extra water. The bread will also be denser.
8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! After kneading, cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise before baking.
9. What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or Mediterranean dips like tzatziki and hummus. It’s also great as a side for grilled meats.
10. Why didn’t my bread rise properly?
This could be due to inactive yeast, water that was too hot (which can kill yeast), or a room temperature that’s too cold for proper rising.
Would you like any additional details or modifications?