Sure! Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey with this exquisite recipe for Sesame Seed Challah, a traditional Egyptian holiday bread that is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. 🍞✨
Sesame Seed Challah (Egyptian Holiday Bread)
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves
Description: Dive into the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Egypt with this tantalizing Sesame Seed Challah recipe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a wholesome homemade bread, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 1/2 – 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast with warm water and a pinch of sugar. Set aside and allow the yeast to activate, forming a frothy layer on the surface.
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour, remaining sugar, salt, and 2 eggs. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
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Incorporate the Yeast Mixture: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, adding more flour or water as needed to achieve a smooth and elastic texture. The dough should remain moist throughout the process.
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First Rise: Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl, sprinkle with flour, and cover with a clean towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
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Shape the Loaves: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions. Place each portion onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it into a round loaf shape.
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Preheat the Oven: While shaping the loaves, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
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Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg. Brush the surface of each loaf with the beaten egg, ensuring full coverage.
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Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds: Generously sprinkle sesame seeds over the egg-washed loaves, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Carefully transfer the prepared loaves onto the greased baking sheet, leaving ample space between them to allow for expansion during baking. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and baked through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Sesame Seed Challah from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and savor the irresistible aroma and taste of this Egyptian holiday bread with your loved ones.
Indulge in the warmth and flavor of homemade Sesame Seed Challah, a true culinary delight that embodies the spirit of Egyptian cuisine. Whether enjoyed during festive gatherings or as a comforting treat on cozy evenings, this bread is sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy every slice and savor the joy of baking from scratch! 🥖🌟
