Koulouri (Greek bread rings)

Greek Koulouri is a delicious Greek bread ring that is usually enjoyed as breakfast or with a cup of coffee. The word koulouri can be translated as a round bread and is typically associated with Athens street vendors who sell them as a quick breakfast or snack. This soft and fluffy bread ring is a staple in Greek cuisine, and it’s hard to resist its beautiful, chewy texture and distinctive flavor.

Greek Koulouri is made with some of the simplest ingredients, and that’s why it’s so popular in Greece. You only need flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and sesame seeds to make this delicious bread. These ingredients combine to make a dough that’s similar to bagel dough, though a bit softer and fluffier.

The addition of sesame seeds is what sets Greek Koulouri apart from other bread rings. The sesame seeds add a touch of nuttiness to the bread and also give it a beautiful golden color, making it an even more tempting treat.

Making Greek Koulouri may seem intimidating at first, but once you have the hang of it, it’s a pretty straightforward process. The first step is to combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Next, you add the water and mix until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for about an hour, so it can rise and double in size.

After the dough has risen, you divide it into pieces and shape them into rings. Then comes the fun part - dipping the rings into a mixture of water and sugar and then coating them in sesame seeds. Once they’re coated, you bake them until they’re golden brown and perfectly baked.

The aroma of freshly baked Greek Koulouri is irresistible, and they taste even better when they’re still warm. The sesame seeds add a nutty and savory flavor to the bread, and the addition of sugar gives it a subtle sweetness.

Greek Koulouri is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can eat it plain or spread some butter or jam on it. It’s also perfect with some feta cheese and olives, which makes for a delicious and traditional Greek breakfast. Alternatively, you can make a sandwich with some ham, cheese, and lettuce for a hearty lunch.

In Greece, Koulouri is available in many shapes and sizes, but the most common is the classic ring shape. They are sold everywhere in bakeries, cafes, and street stalls, and you’ll often see locals walking around with a Koulouri in hand. It’s a beloved part of Greek culture, and even visitors who have never tried it before are sure to fall in love with this delicious, traditional bread.

Overall, Greek Koulouri is a must-try if you’re a fan of bread and pastries. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Its nutty and savory flavor, combined with a hint of sweetness, is what makes it so irresistibly delicious. Whether you eat it for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, you’re sure to fall in love with this traditional Greek bread ring.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 1 egg, beaten
• Sesame seeds for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, olive oil, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, covering with a cloth. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
5. Cut the dough into 20 pieces and roll each into a long 14-inch rope.
6. Connect the two ends of each rope and form them into a ring shape. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops of the rings with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve and enjoy the authentic taste of Greek Koulouri!

• Greek