.Greek Braided Bread, or “Koulouri,” is a delightful and visually appealing bread that’s both soft and slightly sweet. Originating from Greece, this bread is often enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal, accompanied by cheese, olives, or dips. Its distinctive braided shape and golden crust make it a standout item at any table, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making this traditional bread from scratch, ensuring you achieve a beautiful and delicious result.
Ingredients for Greek Braided Bread
To make Greek Braided Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- For Topping (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
How to Make Greek Braided Bread
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into three equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a long rope, about 12-14 inches in length. Arrange the ropes side by side and pinch the ends together at one end.
- Braid the ropes together, making sure to pinch the ends together at the other end to seal the braid. Place the braided loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the braided loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.
- Preheat the Oven:
- While the loaf is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the egg wash evenly over the surface of the bread.
- If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds over the top of the bread for added texture and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 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 on a wire rack before slicing. The bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
About the Main Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: This versatile flour provides the structure for the bread. It has a moderate protein content that ensures a soft, tender crumb.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough. Warm milk helps to activate the yeast, promoting a good rise.
- Butter: Contributes to the bread’s tender texture and rich flavor.
- Eggs: Provide structure and moisture, helping to bind the dough together and give the bread a beautiful golden color.
- Active Dry Yeast: The leavening agent that makes the dough rise. It ferments the sugars in the dough, producing carbon dioxide that causes the dough to expand.
- Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and helps to feed the yeast for a better rise.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread and regulates yeast activity.
Greek Braided Bread is a versatile and delightful bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Its beautiful braided shape and delicious flavor make it a favorite among bread lovers. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this bread is sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this traditional Greek treat with family and friends!
