Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water (not hot!)
- 4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour
🥣 Instructions:
-
Activate the yeast
In a large bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. -
Mix the dough
Add olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. -
Knead
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(Or 5–6 minutes with a mixer.) -
First rise
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. -
Shape
Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or rolls. Place in a greased baking pan. -
Second rise
Cover and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes. -
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown. -
Cool
Let it cool before slicing (this keeps it soft inside).
🔥 Tips for Perfect Bread:
- Water should be warm (like bath water), not hot—otherwise it kills the yeast.
- If the dough is sticky, add a little flour—but don’t overdo it.
- Brush the top with olive oil or butter after baking for a soft crust.
