I’m thrilled to share with you a truly unique and mouthwatering recipe that has been the talk of the culinary world. This Green Pea Bread, a closely guarded secret from a famous restaurant, combines the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour with the unexpected twist of green peas. The result? A bread that’s not only incredibly delicious but also nutritious and visually striking.
As a seasoned baker, I was skeptical at first about mixing peas with flour. However, after trying this recipe, I can confidently say that it’s a game-changer in the world of artisanal bread. The peas lend a subtle sweetness and a beautiful green hue to the bread, making it a showstopper on any table.
The Origin of Green Pea Bread
While the exact origins of this recipe are shrouded in mystery, it’s believed to have been developed in a high-end restaurant known for its innovative approach to traditional dishes. The chef, inspired by the vibrant color and nutritional profile of green peas, decided to incorporate them into a bread recipe. The result was so spectacular that it quickly became the restaurant’s signature item, with patrons coming from far and wide just to taste this unique creation.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets of this extraordinary bread.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
- 1 cup (240g) cooked and mashed green peas
- 2 1/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 1 tsp (5g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp (6g) salt
- 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (approximately)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water (it should be around 110°F or 43°C), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is active when you see a frothy layer on top. This step is crucial for ensuring your bread rises properly.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. The combination of flours gives the bread a perfect balance of texture and nutrition.
- Incorporate the Peas: Add the mashed peas to the flour mixture. Ensure your peas are well-cooked and thoroughly mashed for the best texture. The peas will add moisture, color, and a subtle sweetness to the bread.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour in the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture. The olive oil adds richness and helps keep the bread moist.
- Knead the Dough: Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix the ingredients until they come together. Then, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic consistency. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water. The kneading process develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size. This slow rise allows flavors to develop and creates a better texture.
- Shape the Loaf: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-40 minutes. This second rise ensures a light, airy texture in the final bread.
- Preheat and Bake: While the dough is on its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, bake it for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling period allows the crumb to set, making it easier to slice.
Nutrition Information
Per slice (assuming 12 slices per loaf):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 5g
Time Breakdown
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes
- Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
The Secret to Success
The key to this bread’s incredible flavor and texture lies in the perfect balance of ingredients and technique. The mashed peas not only add a unique flavor profile but also contribute to the bread’s moisture content, resulting in a tender crumb. The combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flours provides a perfect balance of texture and nutrition.
When making this bread, pay special attention to the consistency of your mashed peas. They should be smooth and free of lumps to ensure even distribution throughout the dough. Also, don’t skip the two rising periods – they’re essential for developing flavor and achieving the perfect texture.
This Green Pea Bread is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s excellent toasted and served with butter or cream cheese for breakfast. For lunch, try it as a base for avocado toast or use it to make a gourmet sandwich. At dinner, it’s the perfect accompaniment to soups and stews, its subtle pea flavor complementing both vegetarian and meat-based dishes.
The vibrant green color of this bread makes it a conversation starter at any gathering. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The natural green hue from the peas eliminates the need for any artificial coloring, making this bread as wholesome as it is beautiful.
In conclusion, this Green Pea Bread is more than just a recipe – it’s a culinary experience. By mixing peas with flour, you’re not just creating a loaf of bread; you’re crafting a piece of art that tantalizes all the senses. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. So go ahead, unleash your inner chef, and bring the magic of this famous restaurant’s secret recipe into your own home. Happy baking!
