Slowly add the hot water and olive oil, and stir until the dough gathers.
Kneading dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes,
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 425F (220C).
Punch the dough and shape into a ball. Placing dough on a grease baking sheet.
Make a few incisions on the top of the dough with a sharp knife and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and rings hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from oven and let cool before slicing and serving.
Note: If you do not have an active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast. Just add it with the flour, sugar and salt.
For variations and tips on your bread recipe, here are some ideas:
Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the flour mixture for added flavor. You can also sprinkle garlic powder or onion powder for a savory twist.
Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) into the dough before kneading for a cheesy bread.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind it may change the texture slightly.
Sweet Bread: For a sweeter version, add a couple of tablespoons of honey or sugar to the dough. You could also mix in cinnamon for a nice touch.
Toppings: Experiment with different toppings before baking, like poppy seeds, flaxseeds, or even a sprinkle of coarse salt for extra crunch.
Storage: Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or freeze it for longer storage.
To store your homemade bread, follow these tips:
Cool Completely: Make sure the bread has cooled completely before storing it to prevent moisture buildup.
Wrap It Up: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also place it in a resealable plastic bag.
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within a couple of days, you can store it at room temperature. Just keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Freezing: For longer storage, slice the bread and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it at room temperature or toast the slices directly from the freezer.
Enjoy !
