How to Make Tortoise Bread: A Step-by-Step Video Guide
Tortoise bread, also known as turtle bread, is a delicious and visually appealing bread that resembles a tortoise. It is a popular choice for parties, picnics, and other gatherings. In this step-by-step video guide, we will show you how to make your own tortoise bread at home.
Ingredients:
* 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
* 1/2 cup warm water (110-115°F)
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup milk, warmed
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 1 egg, beaten
For the shell:
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon dried parsley
* 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, milk, melted butter, and egg to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
6. While the dough is rising, make the shell. In a small bowl, combine the pecans, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out one half of the dough into a 12-inch circle.
8. Spread the shell mixture evenly over the dough circle.
9. Roll out the remaining half of the dough into a 12-inch circle.
10. Place the second dough circle over the shell mixture and press around the edges to seal.
11. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the bread into a tortoise shell design.
12. Brush the bread with the egg yolk mixture.
13. Cover the bread with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until the bread has doubled in size.
14. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
15. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
16. Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips:
* For a sweeter bread, add 1/4 cup of sugar to the dough.
* If you don't have pecans, you can use chopped walnuts or almonds instead.
* You can also add other ingredients to the shell mixture, such as chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or herbs.
* To make the bread ahead of time, shape the bread and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake it the next day.
* Tortoise bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
Tortoise bread is a fun and easy bread to make at home. With this step-by-step video guide, you can create your own delicious tortoise bread that will impress your friends and family.