Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours , or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced red pepper, yellow pepper, tomato, green tomato, and green peppers.
- Season the filling with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices to taste. Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal portions.
- Roll out one portion into a large rectangle or circle, about 1/4-inch thick. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the prepared vegetable filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll out the second portion of dough to the same size and carefully place it over the filling. Press the edges together to seal, trimming any excess dough if needed.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the assembled bread with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes , or until slightly puffy.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Optional: Brush the top of the bread with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) for a golden finish.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of the bread to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes , or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Serve
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as-is or with a side of yogurt, sour cream, or tzatziki for dipping.
Why This Recipe Works
- Yeast Activation : Ensures a light, airy texture in the bread.
- Flavorful Filling : The combination of sweet and spicy peppers with juicy tomatoes creates a vibrant, savory filling.
- Soft Dough : The addition of milk and oil makes the bread tender and moist.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Lover’s Twist : Add grated feta, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese to the filling for extra richness.
- Herbaceous Touch : Stir fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano into the filling or sprinkle them on top before baking.
- Spicy Kick : Add diced jalapeΓ±os or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option : Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Mini Rolls : Divide the dough into smaller portions and make individual stuffed rolls for appetizers.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill : Too much filling can make the bread difficult to seal or cause it to burst during baking.
- Seal Edges Well : Press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer storage. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with scrambled eggs, avocado slices, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Slice into wedges and serve alongside dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Stuffed Bread is a celebration of fresh, seasonal vegetables wrapped in soft, homemade bread. With its vibrant filling, golden crust, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a casual gathering, or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this bread is sure to delight.
Your turn! Have you ever made stuffed bread before? Share your favorite fillings or serving ideas below. π