Savory Onion Poppy Seed Bread Ring

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Onion Poppy Seed Bread Ring.

1. Step 1

   Start by whisking together the instant yeast and 3/4 cup of bread flour in a small bowl. Then, sprinkle this mixture over warm water, ensuring the water is no hotter than 100°F (40°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast softens and forms a creamy foam, which is a sign that it's ready to work its magic.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Stir everything together until well combined. Gradually add half of the remaining bread flour, mixing until no dry spots remain. Then, continue adding the rest of the flour, a half cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

3. Step 3

   Lightly oil a large bowl and place the kneaded dough inside, turning it to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a light cloth and let it rise in a warm place (ideally between 80°F to 95°F or 27°C to 35°C) until it has doubled in size, which should take about 2 hours.

4. Step 4

   While the dough is rising, prepare your baking sheet by lining it and greasing it generously. In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped onion, poppy seeds, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Divide this onion mixture into two equal portions and set aside.

5. Step 5

   Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions as well. Roll each portion into strips about 30 inches long and 4 inches wide. Spoon the onion mixture down the center of each strip lengthwise. Carefully pull the edges of the dough up to wrap around the filling, pinching the edges to seal them securely.

6. Step 6

   Now, arrange the two filled strands side by side, seam side down. Starting from the middle of each strand, braid them together by crisscrossing each side, ensuring the seam side remains down. Once braided, pinch the ends together to form a ring. Place this ring on your prepared baking sheet and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise until it has tripled in volume, which should take about 1 1/2 hours.

7. Step 7

   Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position the oven rack to the lowest setting. In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg and a pinch of salt. Brush this egg mixture over the braided ring and sprinkle with additional poppy seeds if you like a little extra crunch and flavor on top.

8. Step 8

   Bake the ring in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped, which should take about 45 to 50 minutes. Remember to turn the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.