There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, especially when it’s a unique and flavorful recipe like Black Pepper Bread. This delightful loaf is a perfect balance of warmth and spice, making it an excellent choice for cozy mornings or as a side for a hearty soup or stew. The crackling crust and soft interior of this bread will surely become a household favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade bread baking with this easy-to-follow recipe.
**Black Pepper Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– Extra olive oil for greasing
– Additional black pepper for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. **Mix the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the activated yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. **Shape the Loaf:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. **Second Rise:** Cover the shaped loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. **Preheat the Oven:** While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. **Bake the Bread:** If desired, brush the top of the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle additional black pepper on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. **Cool and Enjoy:** Once baked, transfer the Black Pepper Bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve it warm with butter or alongside your favorite dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to experiment with bread making, this Black Pepper Bread recipe is a wonderful way to infuse your kitchen with the delightful scent of freshly baked goodness. The subtle heat from the black pepper adds a unique twist to the classic bread loaf, making it a standout choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the art of bread baking, and savor the joy of creating a homemade treat that will surely impress your family and friends.
