Ahhh bread. Some love it, some hate it and some love to hate it. Say what you will but nothing beats the taste of freshly baked home made bread. Don’t be fooled by its crusty and seemingly tough exterior because beneath that is a rich and cohesive crumb that compliments it. You’re probably thinking as a dietitian shouldn’t I shudder at the thought of Bread? “Goodness all those carbs!” Hahahahaha. Fear not, there’s no need to be afraid of carbs. In my personal opinion carbs are a hug for your stomach especially on days like today, and in moderation of course! This recipe is as delicious as it is easy.
The real star of this dish is the ridiculously sweet and tangy caramelised onion relish. I have loved this recipe since the first time I came across caramelized balsamic onions at a roof top market when I still lived in Durban, KwaZulu Natal. This dish is so simple yet so versatile. Even the biggest haters will be det rred by this recipe . These onions go very well on cheese boards, steak sandwiches and on pastries. I hope you enjoy this recipe!
Xxx
The Baking Dietitian
French Bread Recipe
Preparation time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 32
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 5-6 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons table salt or fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until it begins to foam.
2. Place 2 cups of flour into a large mixing bowl with the salt. Stir in the yeast mixture and begin to knead by hand or using a dough hook and hand mixer. Add 1/2 cup of the remaining flour at a time until the dough is smooth but not sticky. Rub the olive oil around the dough ball and let rest for 15 minutes.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it in half. Roll one half into a rectangle. Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a cylinder. Turn both ends in and pinch the seams closed. Round the edges and place onto a baking sheet. Repeat with the second dough ball. Let rise for 30-45 minutes. Make three diagonal cuts across the top of each loaf.
4. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake for 17-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
5. Brush the top with melted butter if desired. Slice and enjoy! :)
Caramelised Onion Relish Recipe
Preparation time: 15min
Cooking time: 40-45min
Servings: Makes 2 cups
INGREDIENTS
• 2 large red onions, peeled
• 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/8 tsp each salt and freshly ground pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Slice onions into very thin slices. Combine onions and sugar in a heavy non-stick pan. Cook, uncovered, over medium-high heat for about 25 minutes or until onions turn golden and start to caramelize, stirring frequently.
2. Stir in wine and vinegar. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce heat to low and cook for about 15 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated, stirring frequently. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Serve on slices of fresh French Bread with biltong and feta cheese, on a cheese board with crackers or home made burgers.
4. Enjoy!