**Nisu Bread: A Journey Through History and Taste**
Nisu bread, a traditional Finnish flatbread, has been a staple in Finnish cuisine for centuries. Its unique flavor and texture set it apart from other breads, making it a beloved treat for locals and a must-try for visitors. This article presents a comprehensive guide to nisu bread, delving into its history, cultural significance, and the art of baking it at home. We'll explore two distinct recipes: the traditional nisu bread recipe passed down through generations and a modern twist that incorporates rye flour for added depth of flavor. Both recipes provide step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and tips for achieving the perfect nisu bread. With its rich heritage and delectable taste, nisu bread is a culinary journey that will transport you to the heart of Finland's culinary traditions.
FINNISH NISU - SWEET BREAD
Finnish Coffee Bread - great with butter and jam. Most Finns serve with coffee and around the holidays.
Provided by LiisaN
Categories Breads
Time 3h
Yield 3 loaves
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Dissolve the yeast in the warm water.
- Stir in the milk, sugar, salt, cardamon, eggs and enough flour to make a batter (approx. 2 cups).
- Beat until dough is smooth and elastic.
- Add about 3 cups of flour and beat well.
- Dough should be smooth and glossy in appearance.
- Add remaining flour 1 cup at a time until dough is stiff.
- Add the butter; beat until dough looks glossy again.
- Turn out onto floured board, cover with inverted bowl.
- Let rest for 15 minutes.
- Knead until smooth and satiny.
- Place in lightly greased bowl, turn dough to grease top, cover lightly and let rise in warm place- until doubled in size.
- Punch down; let rise again.
- Turn out onton a lightly floured board, divide into 3 parts, and divide each part into 3.
- Shape each piece of dough into a strip 16 inches long by rolling between palms and board.
- Braid 3 strips together into a straight loaf and pinch ends together and tuck under.
- Repeat for second and third loafs.
- Place on lightly greased baking sheets.
- Let rise until puffy (1/2 to 1 hour).
- Glaze loaves with a mixture of beaten egg and milk.
- Sprinkle with sugar and sliced almonds.
- Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.
- Do not overbake- or bread will be dry.
NISU BREAD
Steps:
- 1. Place ingredients in bread machine in order given. 2. Set machine for light setting. 3. Serve with butter and jam, or use for French toast.
Tips:
- Make sure to use a quality starter. The starter is the key to the flavor and texture of the bread, so it's important to use one that is active and healthy. If you don't have a starter, you can find instructions for making one online or in a bread-baking book.
- Be patient with the rising process. Nisu bread takes a long time to rise, so it's important to be patient and let it do its thing. The dough will rise best in a warm, draft-free place. If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a warm oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water.
- Don't over-knead the dough. Nisu bread dough is very sticky, so it's important to be careful not to over-knead it. Over-kneading will make the bread tough and chewy.
- Bake the bread in a Dutch oven or a covered baking dish. This will help create a steamy environment that will give the bread a crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing it. This will help prevent the bread from tearing and will give it a chance to develop its full flavor.
Conclusion:
Nisu bread is a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It's perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just eating plain. With a little patience and care, you can easily make this bread at home. So next time you're looking for a new bread to try, give nisu bread a try!
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