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.