Chewy Balkan Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Chewy Balkan Bread.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious bread-making journey, grab a small pot and combine the milk and water.

2. Step 2

   Gently heat this mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a cozy temperature of 110°F (43°C).

3. Step 3

   Once it’s warm, take it off the heat and stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved.

4. Step 4

   Next, pour this sweetened mixture into a cup or a cylindrical glass, and sprinkle the yeast on top.

5. Step 5

   Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the yeast to awaken and become frothy and fragrant—this is where the magic begins! In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt, creating a perfect base for your dough.

6. Step 6

   Now, add the yeast mixture to the flour and salt, stirring until a sticky dough forms.

7. Step 7

   It’s time to get your hands a little floury! Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

8. Step 8

   Shape it into a lovely ball, and let’s move on to the next step.

9. Step 9

   Take a large bowl and grease it with a tablespoon of olive oil.

10. Step 10

    Place your dough ball inside, turning it gently to coat it with the oil.

11. Step 11

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this should take around an hour.

12. Step 12

    While you wait, you can daydream about the delicious bread you’re about to create! Once your dough has risen beautifully, give it a gentle punch down to release the air, and knead it for another minute, using a bit of olive oil on your hands to keep it from sticking.

13. Step 13

    Now, divide the dough into five equal pieces and flatten each piece into a thick rectangle.

14. Step 14

    Arrange these rectangles on a greased baking sheet and give the tops a light brush with olive oil.

15. Step 15

    Let them rest for 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

16. Step 16

    The aroma of rising dough will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! When the oven is ready, bake your bread for about 12 minutes.

17. Step 17

    For that perfect golden finish, switch to the broil setting for an additional minute, keeping a close eye to ensure they don’t burn.

18. Step 18

    Once they’re beautifully golden, remove the bread from the baking sheet and let them cool completely before slicing them in half lengthwise.

19. Step 19

    Enjoy the fruits of your labor, and savor the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home!.