Greek Feta Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Feta Bread is an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The tangy feta cheese melts into the dough, creating a soft, flavorful bread with every bite. The dough is easy to make, and the bread bakes up perfectly golden on the outside while staying soft and tender on the inside. The inclusion of herbs like oregano and thyme gives it a distinctly Mediterranean taste, while the feta ensures each bite is creamy and satisfying. Whether served with a Greek salad, hummus, or as a snack, this bread will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 3/4 cup warm water

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the top)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and Greek yogurt to the flour mixture. Stir to combine, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Add the feta and herbs: Once the dough is smooth, fold in the crumbled feta cheese, dried oregano, and thyme. Continue kneading gently until the feta is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf or an oval shape, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Preheat the oven: While the dough rests for 15-20 minutes, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Brush with egg wash: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish when baked.

8. Bake the bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack. Slice and serve warm, ideally with your favorite Mediterranean dips or alongside a meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Rising time: 1-1.5 hours

• Cook time: 25-30 minutes

• Total time: 1.5-2 hours

Variations

1. Add olives: For extra Mediterranean flavor, mix in some chopped Kalamata olives with the feta and herbs.

2. Use whole wheat flour: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version of the bread.

3. Herb variations: Swap the oregano and thyme for rosemary or basil for a different herby profile.

4. Make individual rolls: Instead of making one large loaf, divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into individual rolls.

Storage/Reheating

Greek Feta Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Reheat the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its softness and warmth.

FAQs

1. Can I use a bread machine to make this bread?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Follow your machine’s instructions for adding ingredients, and let it knead and rise the dough. Afterward, shape the dough, let it rest, and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape the dough into a loaf, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the second rise and baking.

3. How do I make the bread more flavorful?

You can add more herbs like rosemary or garlic to the dough for additional flavor. Also, make sure to use high-quality feta for the best taste.

4. What can I serve with this Greek Feta Bread?

This bread pairs well with Greek salad, hummus, tzatziki, grilled meats, or as a side to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

5. Can I make this bread without yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or even a bit of milk. The texture might change slightly, but the bread will still be delicious.

6. Can I make this bread with gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of this bread by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the flour package for the best results.

7. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, you can also use a thermometer – the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

8. Can I add other cheeses to this bread?

Yes, you can experiment by adding other cheeses such as ricotta, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses along with the feta for added depth of flavor.

9. How can I make this bread more airy?

If you want the bread to be lighter and airier, you can try adding more yeast and allowing for a longer rising time. Alternatively, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.

10. Can I use feta in brine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use feta that is stored in brine, but be sure to drain and crumble it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dough.

Conclusion

Greek Feta Bread is a deliciously flavorful and easy-to-make bread that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of feta cheese, herbs, and yogurt creates a soft, tender loaf with a Mediterranean twist. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own with a bit of olive oil, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s a great way to enjoy homemade bread that’s bursting with flavor.

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