John Ascuaga’S Basque Bread
Description
This delightful Basque-style bread offers a unique balance of softness and sweetness, making it a standout addition to any breakfast or brunch table. Enriched with milk, butter, and shortening, the dough yields a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The subtle sweetness from sugar pairs beautifully with the savory notes of salt and yeast, creating a versatile loaf that can be enjoyed plain or with jam. Perfect for weekend gatherings or quiet morning rituals, this bread brings a touch of international flair to your kitchen. Its golden crust and fluffy interior make it an irresistible treat for the whole family. Simple ingredients come together to create a comforting classic that rivals bakery-fresh rolls.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat water, milk, sugar, butter, and shortening in a saucepan over medium heat to 105&# 194;°F.
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Pour the warm mixture into a liquid measuring cup and stir in the yeast until dissolved.
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Place salt and flour in the work bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade.
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With the motor running, pour the liquid mixture through the feed tube in a steady stream as fast as the flour absorbs it.
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Continue processing until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.
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If the dough is too moist, add flour through the feed tube one tablespoon at a time; if too dry, add cold water one teaspoon at a time.
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Process for an additional 45 seconds to knead the dough.
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Place the dough into a lightly floured 1-gallon plastic storage bag, squeeze out excess air, and seal with a twist tie.
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Let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours.
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Punch down the dough inside the bag to release air.
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Remove the dough and shape it into a round loaf about 6 inches in diameter.
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Place the loaf on an oiled baking sheet and flatten the top slightly.
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Cover with oiled plastic wrap and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
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Preheat oven to 425ðF (218ðC).
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Brush the loaf with water and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1132.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.2g18%
- Saturated Fat 4.5g23%
- Cholesterol 11.2mg4%
- Sodium 6689.8mg279%
- Total Carbohydrate 221.7g74%
- Dietary Fiber 9.0g36%
- Sugars 3.6g
- Protein 30.1g61%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to prevent the interior from becoming gummy.
For a softer crust, brush with melted butter immediately after removing from the oven.
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
You can substitute vegetable oil for the shortening if preferred, though shortening helps maintain tenderness.