Greetings beautiful people! today I will teach you how to make a warming and divine load of vegan friendly olive bread!Â
Olive bread is a type of bread that has been made for centuries in Mediterranean countries. It is typically made with flour, water, yeast, and olives, and is known for its unique flavor and texture. In this recipe, we will explore the history of olive bread, its cultural significance, and why it is a great vegan-friendly option.
Watch the video on how to make a loaf of vegan friendly olive bread
History of Olive Bread:
Olive bread has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. The olive tree, from which the olives used in the bread are derived, has been cultivated for thousands of years and was a staple food in ancient Greece and Rome. The first recorded use of olive oil dates back to 6000 BC, in the area that is now modern-day Israel. The use of olives in bread-making likely came about due to the abundance of olive trees in the Mediterranean region, where bread was a staple food.
Throughout history, olive bread has been made in various ways and with different ingredients. In ancient Greece, bread was made with barley flour and sometimes flavored with olives or figs. In ancient Rome, bread was often made with spelt flour and sometimes flavored with olives or herbs. Olive bread became particularly popular during the Middle Ages, when it was made in monasteries and sold at local markets. It was often used as a form of currency and was highly valued for its flavor and nutritional content.
For a more powerful flavour I recommend using green olives.
Cultural Significance of Olive Bread:
Olive bread is an important part of Mediterranean cuisine and is enjoyed in many countries, including Italy, Spain, Greece, and Turkey. It is often served as an appetizer or alongside meals and is a popular choice for sandwiches and toast. Olive bread is also an important part of religious and cultural celebrations, such as Easter and Christmas.
In some cultures, olive bread is considered a symbol of peace and prosperity. In Greece, for example, olive branches and bread are often given as gifts during the Christmas season. In Italy, olive bread is a traditional part of the Easter meal and is said to represent the resurrection of Christ. In Spain, olive bread is often served during the Feast of Saint John, a celebration of the summer solstice.
Why Olive Bread is a Great Vegan-Friendly Option:
Olive bread is a great option for vegans and vegetarians because it is made without animal products. It is typically made with just a few simple ingredients, including flour, water, yeast, and olives. Many variations of olive bread are also gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities.
In addition to being vegan-friendly, olive bread is also a healthy choice. Olives are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Olive oil, which is often used in olive bread recipes, is also a good source of healthy fats and has been linked to numerous health benefits, including lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health.
Conclusion:
Olive bread has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. It is an important part of Mediterranean cuisine and is enjoyed in many countries around the world. Olive bread is a great vegan-friendly option, as it is made without animal products and is often gluten-free. It is also a healthy choice, thanks to the nutritional benefits of olives and olive oil. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, sandwich, or alongside a meal, olive bread is a delicious and nutritious addition to any menu.
Vegan Olive Bread
Ingredients
- 500 g plain white flour
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 7 g dry yeast
- 1 tsp dry basil
- 1 tsp dry oregano
Instructions
- in a large mixing bowl, put the flour through a sieve
- add in the salt and stir
- in a separate bowl add in 1/2 cup warm water with yeast and sugar, stir and set aside
- add in the yeast water to the flour mix
- Add in the herbs and olives and start kneading, slowly adding in water each time
- once well mixed, massage some olive oil on the top to prevent from drying
- Cover with a towel for 2 hours until it doubles in size
- Flour a surface, and pour out the dough mix, knead. Keep adding a dash of flour until tacky but not too sticky that it makes a mess.
- Once ready, place some parchment paper into an pot that you can place in the oven
- Cover the pan and on 200*C / 390* F bake for 40 minutes - After that remove the lid and bake for an extra 5
- Eventually you will have a beautiful load of olive bread that is absolutely bursting with flavour and fluffy on the inside.
