Manna Bread Delight

Manna Bread Delight is a unique and wholesome treat that brings together a blend of simple ingredients to create a soft, flavorful loaf. Combining the subtle nutty flavor of semolina (manna) with the creamy texture of cheese, this bread is a delightful addition to your meal. The yeast gives it a light, airy texture, while a touch of milk adds a rich golden-brown crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to any meal, this bread is versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe offers room for customization with different types of cheeses or yogurt for a slight tang. Its delicate, slightly sweet taste makes it a favorite among bread lovers who appreciate homemade goodies. With its soft interior and inviting aroma, Manna Bread Delight can easily become a staple in your baking repertoire. Serve it fresh out of the oven, or pair it with your favorite dips and spreads.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 cup semolina (manna)
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese (or sour cream, plain yogurt, melted cheese, or smooth cottage cheese)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 150 ml water

Preparation Time

• Total time: 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. In a bowl, combine the semolina, 1 cup of wheat flour, and yeast. Mix thoroughly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with salt, sugar, cream cheese, and water until smooth.
3. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, mix well, and let it rest for 20 minutes for the semolina to swell slightly.
4. Gradually add more flour, kneading into a soft, elastic dough. The dough should not stick to your hands but should also not be too stiff or dry.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a bag with no holes, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the risen dough into a beautiful loaf. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts on top if desired for design.
7. Cover the loaf with a towel and let it sit in a warm place for another 20 minutes.
8. Brush the loaf with warm milk and sprinkle some semolina on top for a crunchy texture.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for around 25 minutes or until the loaf is beautifully browned.
10. Once baked, wrap the loaf in a towel and let it cool. This helps in producing a soft crust.
11. The final loaf weighs approximately 550 grams.
12. Enjoy your homemade Manna Bread Delight! Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
• Experiment with different types of cheese or yogurt for a unique flavor twist.
• For a more rustic look, skip making cuts on the loaf.
• Ensure the oven is fully preheated to get the best crust.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Substitute semolina with whole wheat flour for a different texture and flavor.
• For a vegan version, replace the egg and dairy products with plant-based alternatives.
• Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot bowl of soup or stew.
• Serve with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• Enjoy with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Best Places

• The Bread Kitchen - Renowned for its rustic loaves and comforting atmospheres. Location: 123 Baker St, London, England.
• Boulangerie Artisanale - A charming bakery with traditional French bread. Location: 10 Rue Lafayette, Paris, France.
• La Panaderia - Popular for its Mexican-style breads and pastries. Location: Av. Juarez 15, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Bakery 49 - Known for its innovative bread flavors. Location: 49 Kingsway, Sydney, Australia.
• Café Crust - Offers a wide range of bread and coffee pairings. Location: 60 Elm St, New York City, USA.
• Pane e Vino - Italian delicacies with freshly baked bread. Location: Via Roma 16, Milan, Italy.
• Bäckerei & Konditorei Busch - Features German bread favorites. Location: Karl-Plentzner-Str. 1, Berlin, Germany.
• Knead Bread - A trendy spot for sourdough enthusiasts. Location: 22 Harper Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Nordic Crust - Where Scandinavian breads and pastries rule. Location: Nybrokajen 18, Stockholm, Sweden.
• The Rustic Table - A cozy place serving homemade delights. Location: 34 Queen’s Rd, Wellington, New Zealand.