Bread with Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutesuntil it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
4. Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the filling ingredients: In a bowl, combine your chosen filling ingredients (cheese, meat, vegetables, and seasonings). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Shape the Stuffed Bread

1. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into two equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
3. Add the filling: Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges.
4. Roll it up: Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log shape, tucking in the sides as you go to seal the filling inside.
5. Seal the edges: Pinch the ends and seam to ensure the filling doesn’t escape during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Bread

1. Place in a baking dish: Transfer the rolled bread to a greased baking sheet or lined with parchment paper.
2. Egg wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the bread for a golden finish.
3. Score the top: Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow cuts on top of the bread to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve: Cut into thick slices and serve warm. This stuffed bread is excellent on its own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!

Tips for Success

• Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Consider using different combinations of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, or even sweet fillings like Nutella and banana for a dessert version.
• Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor of your filling with fresh herbs or spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Assemble the stuffed bread, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
• Freezing: Unbaked stuffed bread can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Health Benefits

• Whole Grains: Using whole wheat flour can increase the fiber content, making the bread more filling and beneficial for digestion.
• Customizable: You control the ingredients, allowing you to make healthier choices, such as using lean meats and plenty of vegetables.
• Protein-Rich: Adding cottage cheese or ricotta to your filling can boost protein levels, making this a more balanced meal option.

Enjoy this Delicious Stuffed Bread recipe as a fantastic addition to any meal! With its golden crust and flavorful filling, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. This recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile favorite in your kitchen.