Discover the delightful world of Pacha bread, a traditional and hearty bread loved in various cultures for its dense texture and rich flavor. This bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with stews, soups, or simply enjoyed fresh with a spread of butter or jam.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to expand your baking repertoire, this Pacha bread recipe will guide you through every step to create a loaf that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Made with simple, natural ingredients, this bread embodies comfort and tradition, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade bread collection. The process is straightforward, requiring minimal equipment, and the results are truly rewarding.
Perfect for weekend baking sessions or whenever you crave fresh bread, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pacha bread stands out because it combines a rustic charm with a moist, slightly chewy crumb. It’s ideal for those who appreciate bread with character, rather than a soft, fluffy white loaf.
This recipe:
- Uses accessible ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
- Yields a dense, flavorful bread perfect for dipping or sandwiches
- Is simple enough for beginners but satisfying for experienced bakers
- Can be customized with herbs, seeds, or spices to suit your taste
Plus, baking your own bread is a fun, rewarding experience that fills your home with an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) or 2 tbsp seeds (sesame, flax)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Baking sheet or cast iron skillet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is alive and ready.
- Mix the dough: In your large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Form the dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you prefer, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- First rise: Lightly grease your mixing bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the bread: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased cast iron skillet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) about 20 minutes before baking.
- Prepare for baking: Optionally, make a few shallow slashes on the top of the loaf with a sharp knife for a rustic look. Brush lightly with olive oil or water to help develop a nice crust.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool completely: Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Variations
“For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.”
- Add seeds or nuts: Mix in flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped walnuts for a nutty texture and extra nutrition.
- Herb infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for aromatic bread.
- Whole wheat variation: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Sweet twist: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a subtly sweet bread great with breakfast spreads.
- Storage: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container or bread box for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 slice, ~60g) |
---|---|
Calories | 160 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Protein | 5 g |
Fat | 3 g |
Fiber | 1.5 g |
Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Pacha bread is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Fresh with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping
- Accompanying hearty stews or curries for soaking up rich sauces
- Toasted with your favorite vegan spreads, such as avocado or hummus
- As a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with fresh veggies or plant-based cheeses
- Serve alongside soups like the comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food
Conclusion
Making Pacha bread at home is a rewarding experience that brings a piece of traditional baking into your kitchen. Its dense yet tender crumb and rustic flavor make it a perfect companion for a variety of meals or a delightful snack on its own.
This recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and offers plenty of room for customization to suit your personal taste.
By following these simple steps, you’ll create a loaf that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread. Looking to explore more delicious and wholesome recipes?
Try out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or dive into the world of plant-based meals with our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals. For fresh and light ideas, don’t miss the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Happy baking and enjoy every bite of your homemade Pacha bread!
📖 Recipe Card: Pacha Bread
Description: Pacha bread is a traditional soft and fluffy bread, perfect for breakfast or snacks. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a tender crumb.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture, warm milk, egg, butter, and vanilla to flour.
- Knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- Cover dough and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down dough and shape into a loaf.
- Place loaf in greased pan and let rise 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake bread for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 30g
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