Olive Infused Whole Wheat Olive Bread
The nutty notes of the whole wheat flour complement the briny taste of the olives, creating a delicious balance of flavors. This whole wheat olive bread is not only tasty but also packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any bread lover.
Whole wheat olive bread is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
In addition to its nutritional profile, whole wheat bread is often lauded for its role in supporting heart health. The fiber and antioxidant content can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, the complex carbohydrates in whole wheat bread provide a steady release of energy, making it a favorable choice for sustained energy throughout the day.
Whether enjoyed on its own, toasted and topped with creamy spreads, or paired with a hearty soup or salad, Whole Wheat Olive Bread is sure to elevate any meal and satisfy even the most discerning bread lovers.
EQUIPMENT
- Baking pot/pan with a lid
INGREDIENTS
- 3½ cups 80% whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 heaping teaspoon coarse salt
- 1 heaping teaspoon sugar
- 1¾ lukewarm water
Topping:
- 1 cup your favorite olives
INSTRUCTIONS
- Mix the flour, yeast and sugar in a large bowl. Add the water gradually and mix. Add salt and mix until the dough is formed. Fold it 2-3 times, cover and let it rise in a cool place for 20 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 430 F (220 C) and put in a round baking pot or a deep baking pan. Transfer the dough to a lightly flour-dusted surface, roll it out and top with the olives. Fold the dough inward and shape it into a loaf (round or oval). Transfer back to a bowl, cover and let it rise for 40 minutes.
- Create a cut on the top surface of the dough with a sharp knife. Remove the pot from the oven, place the dough inside (careful, the pan is super hot), cover with a lid or tin foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Uncover the pot and continue baking until you get a brown/golden crust.
- Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack. Wait at least 40 minutes before slicing.
MY NOTES
Frequently Asked Questions
What other toppings can I add to this bread?
You can add dried tomatoes or walnuts, making it a olive and walnut bread.
Can I freeze this whole wheat olive bread?
Yes. Here’s how you can freeze a loaf of whole wheat olive bread:
1. Allow the bread to cool completely after baking. It’s important to cool it to room temperature before freezing to prevent condensation and moisture buildup. Once the whole wheat olive bread has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
2. Place the wrapped whole wheat olive bread in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This extra layer of protection will help maintain the quality of the bread and prevent it from absorbing freezer odors.
Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of its freezing time.
3. Put the whole wheat olive bread in the freezer, ensuring it’s placed in a way that avoids crushing or squishing it.
how do I THAW the whole wheat olive BREAD?
When you’re ready to enjoy the bread, first remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. This may take a few hours or overnight, depending on the size of the loaf.
Once thawed, you can refresh the bread by briefly heating it in the oven or toasting it. This will help restore its texture and revive the flavors.
It’s important to note that freezing may slightly affect the texture of the bread, making it a bit denser compared to when it was freshly baked. However, it should still be enjoyable and delicious.
how long can you freeze whole wheat bread?
Whole wheat bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without a significant loss in quality.
How do I store whole wheat olive bread to keep it fresh?
To store whole wheat olive bread and keep it fresh for as long as possible, follow these guidelines:
Cool the bread completely: Allow the bread to cool down completely to room temperature before storing it. If you store it while it’s still warm, condensation can form inside the packaging, leading to a soggy texture and potential mold growth.
Wrap it tightly: Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or airtight food storage bags to tightly wrap the whole wheat olive bread. This helps to prevent air exposure and maintain its moisture.
Store at room temperature: Whole wheat olive bread is best stored at room temperature, in a cool and dry area. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can speed up the staling process.
Avoid refrigeration: Refrigeration tends to dry out bread and can affect its texture. Unless your whole wheat olive bread contains perishable fillings or spreads, it’s generally recommended to avoid refrigerating it.
Use a bread box or bread bag: If you have a bread box or a special bread bag, they can provide an ideal environment for storing whole wheat olive bread. They help retain the bread’s moisture while allowing some air circulation to prevent mold growth.
Slice as needed: If you don’t plan to consume the entire loaf at once, slice the bread as needed rather than slicing it all at once. This helps to maintain the freshness of the remaining unsliced portion.
Consume within a few days: Whole wheat bread, including olive bread, is best enjoyed fresh. It is recommended to consume it within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture. After this time, the bread may start to become dry and lose its freshness.
Remember, the storage time can vary depending on the specific recipe, ingredients, and environmental conditions. Trust your senses and discard the bread if you notice any signs of mold, off odors, or significant staleness.
Is whole wheat olive bread healthier than regular bread?
Yes, whole wheat olive bread is generally considered healthier than regular bread. Here’s why:
Whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour used in the bread is made from whole grains that include the bran, germ, and endosperm. This means it retains more of the nutrients and dietary fiber compared to refined white flour used in regular bread. Whole wheat flour is higher in fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), minerals (such as magnesium and zinc), and phytochemicals.
Dietary fiber: Whole wheat flour contains higher levels of dietary fiber compared to refined flour. Dietary fiber aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
Healthier fats: Olive oil and olives used in whole wheat olive bread provide healthier fats, including monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats are known for their potential heart health benefits, such as reducing bad cholesterol levels and promoting good cholesterol levels.
Antioxidants: Olives used in whole wheat olive bread are a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants have been associated with various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting overall well-being.
Lower glycemic index: Whole wheat bread generally has a lower glycemic index compared to white bread. The lower glycemic index means it causes a slower and more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those seeking to manage their blood sugar levels.
