Zimbabwean-style Basler Brot

Recipe

Zimbabwean-style Basler Brot

Savory Cornmeal Bread with a Zimbabwean Twist

4.6 out of 5

This recipe brings a delightful Zimbabwean twist to the traditional Swiss Basler Brot. The combination of cornmeal and local spices adds a unique flavor profile to this bread, making it a perfect accompaniment to Zimbabwean meals.

Jan Dec
Bread› Basler Brot
European cuisine› Alpine cuisine› Swiss cuisine
African cuisine› Southern African cuisine› Zimbabwean cuisine

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

30-35 minutes

Total time

1 hour 50 minutes (including rising time)

Yields

6 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan (if vegetable oil is used), Dairy-free, Nut-free, Egg-free

Allergens

Wheat

Not suitable for

Gluten-free (contains all-purpose flour)

Ingredients

In this Zimbabwean adaptation of Basler Brot, we replace some of the traditional ingredients with Zimbabwean staples. Cornmeal is used instead of rye flour, adding a unique flavor and texture to the bread. Local spices like ground coriander and paprika are incorporated to infuse the bread with Zimbabwean flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Basler Brot, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, instant yeast, salt, ground coriander, and paprika.
  2. 2.
    Add the vegetable oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
  3. 3.
    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. 4.
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. 5.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  6. 6.
    Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet.
  7. 7.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. 8.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the bread.
  • Ground coriander — For the best flavor, use freshly ground coriander seeds.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a spicier bread, you can add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dough.
  • Serve the bread warm with a dollop of butter for extra richness.
  • This bread is perfect for making sandwiches or toasting for breakfast.

Serving advice

Serve Zimbabwean-style Basler Brot as a side dish with traditional Zimbabwean stews, such as Sadza (cornmeal porridge) or Nyama Choma (grilled meat). It also pairs well with soups and can be enjoyed on its own with a spread of butter or jam.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional cornmeal on top of the loaf before baking. This will give the bread a rustic and appealing appearance.

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