Kalamata Olive Bread

Servings 1 loaf, Total time 2 hour + 30 minutes

This fantastic bread is a blend of savory notes from the olives and the hint of sweetness from the onions. It is a unique addition to a delicious breakfast or on its own as a satisfying snack alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee. It's a cherished Cypriot recipe that is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. In the springtime, Cyprus is decorated with abundant fresh mint, frequently used in various savory pastries and breads. This bread is generously filled with kalamata olives, onions, and fresh herbs.

For the dough:

• 250g - 1 cup warm water

• 75g - ⅓ cup warm milk

• 1 tsp honey

• 7g instant yeast

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• 500g - 4 cups bread flour

• 2 tbsp EVOO

For the filling:

• 1 cup cilantro, chopped 

• ½ cup mint leaves, chiffonade

• ¼ cup scallions, finely chopped

• 1 cup - 180g pitted kalamata olives, halved

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced small

For the top:

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp water

• ¼ cup sesame seeds

Steps:

1. Combine the yeast, honey, warm milk, and warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Use your hands to combine the ingredients, then transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a large, lightly oiled bowl.

3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it has doubled.

4. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.

5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat, then add the diced onion and cook slowly until soft and translucent. Combine the cooked onions, olives, and herbs in a bowl.

6. Knead the mixture until it forms a unified dough, then shape it into a rectangular or oval shape.

7. Whisk the eggs and water together in a small bowl, then add half of the sesame seeds. Brush the entire dough with the egg wash and sprinkle the remaining sesame seeds.

8.  Use a dough cutter to make eight sections in the dough, then gently push the sections back together. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for 30 minutes.

9. Bake for 35-40 minutes at 375°F or until the crust is golden brown. Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with olive oil or butter. Enjoy!