Greek Bread recipe (Village bread/ Horiatiko Psomi)

Step 1

To prepare this easy Greek bread recipe, start by adding in a large bowl the water, yeast and sugar. Use a fork to completely dissolve the yeast in the water. Set aside for about  5 -10 minutes to activate the yeast. Note: if you don’t have fresh yeast substitute for dried – just use one third of the quantity stated.

Step 2

Add half the flour a little bit at time whilst mixing with a spoon. Add the olive oil and salt and the rest of the flour and mix with a spoon until all the flour has been absorbed. At this point the dough should be sticky on your hand. Knead the dough a little bit with your hands to form into a ball. Place the dough inside a lightly oiled large bowl and cover with cling film.

Step 3

Let the dough rise at room temperature for 10-12 hours (or overnight).

Step 4

Deflate the dough. Sprinkle semolina on a large working surface and transfer the dough on the surface. Using a sharp knife divide the dough in 2 equal pieces. (This Greek Bread recipe makes 2 loafs of bread).

Step 5

Knead each piece of the dough with your hands just enough to have a nice and smooth dough that doesn’t stick too much on your hands (for about 3 minutes). Sprinkle the dough with semolina (2-3 tbsps) when kneading the dough.

Step 6

Form 2 round loafs and place inside a casserole dish or clay pot with a lid. Score the top of each loaf using a sharp knife. Place the lid on the casserole dish.

Step 7

Preheat the oven at 200-210C/ 400F. Bake for 45 minutes with the lid on and another 20 minutes without the lid, until nicely coloured and crusty.