Tortano Maize Recipe

Tortano maize is a delightful and aromatic bread hailing from the rich culinary traditions of certain regions. Its preparation requires patience, resulting in a loaf that is both satisfying and unique in taste. The recipe involves a blend of wheat and rye flour, enhanced with the subtle sweetness of honey, offering a rich, deep flavor profile. This bread is recognized for its distinct ring shape, contributing to its unique identity. The use of potato adds moisture and a delicate fluffiness to the crumb. The process of folding and resting the dough allows it to develop a beautiful structure and an airy texture. Ideal for any meal, tortano maize pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Its crust is crunchy while the inside remains soft and tender, creating a contrast that is immensely satisfying. Preparing tortano maize can be a fulfilling project for any bread enthusiast, as it marries basic ingredients with a careful process to create something extraordinary.

Ingredients

Starter:

• 1/4 teaspoon dry yeast
• 240 ml warm water
• 50 g wheat flour
• 50 g rye flour

Dough:

• 60 g mashed potato
• 500 g wheat flour
• 150 g rye flour
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 3 teaspoons salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 6 hours (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preparing the starter: In a small bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in 240 ml of warm water. Let it stand for 10 minutes to activate.
2. Mix the flour with the yeast water: Add 50 g each of wheat and rye flour into the yeast mixture, stirring until smooth.
3. Cover and ferment: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow it to ferment at room temperature for 12 hours. You’ll notice small bubbles forming as the mixture doubles in size.
4. Prepare the potato: After 12 hours of fermentation, boil a potato, mash it well to make 60 g of mashed potato, and set aside.
5. Mix the main dough: In a large bowl, mix 400 g of wheat flour and rye flour with some warm water, stirring well. Let rest for 10 minutes.
6. Combine starter and dough ingredients: Add the prepared starter, mashed potato, salt, and honey into the flour mixture. Gradually incorporate the remaining wheat flour, kneading by hand.
7. Develop the dough: Knead the dough until it's moist and slightly sticky but smooth enough to handle.
8. First rise and fold: Place the dough in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 4 hours. Every 20 minutes, stretch and fold the dough to develop its structure.
9. Shape the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Form it into a ring by creating a hole in the center, stretching it to about 8 cm in diameter.
10. Prepare for the final rise: Place the dough ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
11. Preheat the oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C.
12. Score and bake: Once the dough has risen, score the ring with slashes along the sides and bake for 40-50 minutes.
13. Create steam in the oven: To achieve a crispy crust, place a pan of hot water at the bottom of the oven during baking.
14. Cool the bread: Once baked, cool the bread under a towel for a crunchy crust yet moist interior.
15. Serve and enjoy: Slice the bread and serve it with your favorite accompaniments. Enjoy the special aroma and taste.

Tips

• Use freshly mashed potatoes to add moisture to your bread.
• Ensure proper kneading to develop gluten for better texture.
• If the dough is too sticky, dampen your hands instead of adding more flour.
• A moderate room temperature is crucial for proper fermentation.

Nutritions

• Calories: 180 per serving
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 2 g
• Carbs: 35 g

Variations

• For whole-grain lovers: Substitute some of the wheat flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect alongside a warm soup or stew.
• Delicious when paired with a cheese platter.

Best Places

1. Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers a slice of Italian tradition with diverse bakery options. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.
2. El Panera Bakery - Known for its rustic breads and charming setting. Location: Av. Santa Fe 2401, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
3. Breads Bakery - Famous for artisanal breads and pastries in a modern space. Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, USA.
4. Chez Paul - A cozy French bakery offering authentic bread and pastries. Location: 2 Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie, Paris, France.
5. Panadería Rosetta - Celebrated for its artisanal approach and delectable offerings. Location: Colima 179, Mexico City, Mexico.
6. Boréal Gourmand - Features tempting breads and delightful meals. Location: Rue de Lausanne 16, Geneva, Switzerland.
7. Invarkloof Bakery - A local favorite for hearty and wholesome breads. Location: 8 Albert Street, Riversdale, South Africa.
8. St. John Bakery - Known for its sourdough and hand-molded doughnuts. Location: Maltby St, London SE1, London, UK.
9. Konditori Sandelin - Offers sweet treats and authentic Swedish rye bread. Location: Hämeenkatu 24, Tampere, Finland.
10. Brød & Taylor - Renowned for its innovative bread-making techniques. Location: Århusgade 50, Copenhagen, Denmark.