Are you ready to discover a delicious and unique recipe? Today, we’re diving into the world of Tahini Bread! This soft and flavorful bread has roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is a staple ingredient. People have been enjoying tahini for centuries, using it in hummus, dressings, and sweets. But did you know it can also be used to create a delightful bread?
Tahini bread is popular for many reasons. First, it has a wonderful nutty flavor that adds a special twist to your usual bread. Second, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or tools. Whether you’re having it with breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this bread is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of tahini, which is rich in healthy fats and minerals. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
Tahini | 1/2 cup |
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Warm water | 3/4 cup |
Honey or sugar | 2 tablespoons |
Active dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Sesame seeds (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Note: If you’re allergic to sesame, you can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter for a similar nutty taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your very own tahini bread:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey (or sugar), and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add in the tahini, activated yeast mixture, and olive oil.
- Mix the Dough: Stir the mixture with a spoon or your hands until it forms a dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: While the loaf is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the loaf. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value per serving (1 slice) of tahini bread:
Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
Calories | 150 | 8% |
Protein | 4g | 8% |
Carbohydrates | 22g | 7% |
Fats | 6g | 9% |
Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Sugar | 1g | 1% |
Tips and Tricks
– For extra flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough.
– If you want a sweeter bread, consider adding more honey or sugar to your recipe.
– Be careful not to over-knead the dough, as this can make your bread tough.
– Store your tahini bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.
FAQs
How long does tahini bread stay fresh?
Tahini bread can stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! You can use whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. You might need to add a little more water to the dough.
What can I serve with tahini bread?
Tahini bread pairs well with dips like hummus, or you can enjoy it with some butter and jam for breakfast.
Is tahini bread gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour, which has gluten. For gluten-free options, you can use a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this bread in a bread maker?
Yes! You can follow your bread maker’s instructions, adding the ingredients in the order recommended by the manufacturer.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, double-check that your yeast is fresh and that you used warm water—not hot or cold!
Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?
Absolutely! You can mix in seeds or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Is tahini bread healthy?
Yes! Tahini is packed with healthy fats and protein, making tahini bread a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.
How can I tell when my bread is done baking?
You can tell it’s ready when the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and you’ll have a delicious vegan friendly bread.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s your turn to make tahini bread! Enjoy this delightful treat with family or friends, and happy baking!