There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. This quick bread recipe, with its light and fluffy texture, is perfect for those who love the combination of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. Infused with the freshness of spinach and the mild spice of green onions, this bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is simple to follow and will leave you with a delightful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Milk: 200 ml
- Sugar: 20 g
- Yeast: 7 g
- Flour: 370 g
- Egg: 1 piece
- Oil: 30 ml
For the Filling:
- Onion: 100 g, finely chopped
- Spinach: 50 g, roughly chopped
- Parmesan: 50 g, grated
- Green Onions: 10 g, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Egg: 1 piece
Tools Required:
- Baking Tray: Size 20 x 20 cm
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Warm the milk gently until it’s lukewarm. Pour it into a mixing bowl and dissolve the sugar in it.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and the activated yeast mixture.
- Add one egg and mix well until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach mixture with Parmesan, green onions, and one egg. Set aside.
- Assemble the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle that fits your 20 x 20 cm baking tray.
- Spread the spinach filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then place it seam-side down in the greased baking tray.
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 15 minutes.
- Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Once the dough has risen slightly again, bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure that the milk is not too hot or too cold, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chew.
- Let it Rise: Be patient during the rising process. Letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and green onions enhance the flavor of the bread. Avoid overcooking the spinach to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
This quick bread is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a source of several health benefits:
- Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, spinach is a superfood that supports bone health and boosts immunity.
- Onions and Garlic: Both are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to heart health and improved digestion.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a good dose of protein and calcium, essential for strong bones and muscles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a snack, a side dish with soup, or as a savory breakfast option.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Combines the health benefits of greens with the indulgent taste of freshly baked bread.
- Customizable: Adapt the filling to include your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile staple in your baking repertoire.
Dietary Information
This recipe contains dairy, gluten, and eggs. For those with dietary restrictions, consider the following alternatives:
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk alternative and dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
- Vegan: Replace the egg in the dough with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a vegan cheese substitute.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe achieves the perfect balance of flavor and texture by combining savory ingredients with a light and airy dough. The rising process allows the yeast to ferment, creating air pockets that result in a soft, cloud-like crumb. The spinach and green onions add a fresh, earthy flavor, while the Parmesan cheese provides a subtle richness. The use of both sautéed and raw ingredients in the filling ensures a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and complex.
Conclusion
Baking bread at home is a rewarding experience, and this quick bread with spinach and green onions is no exception. Its fluffy texture and savory filling make it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this bread is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results that come with it!