Spinach Stuffed Bread is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines soft, fluffy dough with a savory spinach filling. The dough, made from simple ingredients like yeast, water, and flour, bakes up light and airy, creating the perfect base for the vibrant spinach mixture. This recipe is a great way to enjoy fresh spinach, and the addition of sautéed onions and spices enhances the filling’s flavor. The bread is easy to make, and it can be served warm out of the oven for a comforting snack, side dish, or even a light main course. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, lunchbox, or dinner, these stuffed breads will surely become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (for dough and filling)
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including dough rising time)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 glasses of warm water
- 1 tsp yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 4.5-5 cups flour
For Greasing the Dough:
- 50g butter, melted
- 1 teacup oil
For the Filling:
- 2 cups spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chili pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp oil
Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of yeast in 2 glasses of warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and gradually mix in 4.5-5 cups of flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling:
- Wash and chop the spinach.
- Finely chop the onions.
- In a frying pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach, salt, black pepper, and chili pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted and any excess water has evaporated. Set aside to cool.
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Assemble the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a disc on a floured surface.
- Place a generous spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each disc.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges well to form a stuffed bread.
- Place the stuffed breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Grease the Dough:
- Melt 50g of butter and mix with 1 teacup of oil.
- Brush the tops of the stuffed breads with this mixture.
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Topping:
- In a small bowl, beat 1 egg yolk with a little oil.
- Brush the egg yolk mixture over the tops of the stuffed breads for a shiny finish.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breads are golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious spinach stuffed breads warm!
Nutritional Facts (Per serving, assuming 8 servings)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 30%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 10%
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spinach Stuffed Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The dough is simple to prepare and rises beautifully, resulting in soft and fluffy bread. The filling, made with fresh spinach and onions, is seasoned to perfection with salt, black pepper, and a hint of chili pepper for a little kick. The dough is perfectly greased with a mixture of butter and oil, adding richness and flavor, while the egg yolk topping gives the bread a shiny and appealing finish. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just for a comforting meal, this bread is sure to satisfy.
Simple and Versatile The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can enjoy these stuffed breads warm out of the oven or at room temperature. They make a great addition to any meal and are perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or as a snack on the go. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as cheese, ground meat, or other vegetables, to suit your taste.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Breads
- Proper Dough Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm place until doubled in size for the best texture. If the room is cold, try placing the bowl in a slightly warm oven or covering the dough with a damp towel.
- Sealing the Bread: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Pinch the edges tightly and fold them if needed to ensure the bread stays sealed.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the filling, such as dill, basil, or oregano, to suit your taste.
- Using Fresh Spinach: Be sure to cook the spinach long enough to release any excess moisture before using it in the filling. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed breads are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Snack: Perfect for a midday snack or as an appetizer, served with a yogurt dip or a side of salad.
- With Soup: Pair these stuffed breads with a warm bowl of soup for a complete, satisfying meal.
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy them warm for breakfast, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee, or serve them as part of a larger brunch spread.
- With a Side Salad: Serve these breads with a side of Mediterranean salad for a light, fresh meal.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Stuffed Bread: Add some crumbled feta, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice to the spinach filling for a cheesy, comforting version of this recipe.
- Meat Filling: For a heartier version, use ground lamb, beef, or chicken in place of spinach, seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful filling.
- Vegan Version: Omit the butter and egg yolk, and use plant-based oil and a dairy-free topping for a vegan-friendly version of this bread.
Conclusion
Spinach Stuffed Bread is a delightful recipe that brings together soft, pillowy dough with a savory spinach and onion filling. It’s simple to make and full of flavor, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you enjoy it warm out of the oven or as part of a packed lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try experimenting with different fillings and toppings to make this dish your own. With its versatility and irresistible taste, Spinach Stuffed Bread is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I prepare the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place it in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours and let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
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Can I freeze the stuffed breads? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed breads. Once baked, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
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Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh spinach is unavailable. Be sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before cooking.
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What can I serve with this bread? You can serve this stuffed bread with a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, or dips like tzatziki or hummus.