Algerian-inspired Festive Christmas Bread

Ingredients

The Algerian-inspired Festive Christmas Bread takes inspiration from the original Croatian dish, Blagdanski božićni kruh Koledo. While the original Croatian bread is typically made with ingredients like yeast, eggs, and butter, the Algerian-inspired version incorporates Algerian flavors and ingredients. The use of saffron, warm spices, and dried fruits gives this bread a distinct Algerian twist, creating a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Blagdanski božićni kruh Koledo, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (150g) semolina 1 cup (150g) semolina
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (40g) raisins 1/4 cup (40g) raisins
• 1/4 cup (40g) chopped almonds 1/4 cup (40g) chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup (40g) chopped pistachios 1/4 cup (40g) chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup (40g) chopped dried apricots 1/4 cup (40g) chopped dried apricots

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 8g (1g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (15g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with warm water and let it steep for 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, semolina, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the saffron-infused water, milk, vegetable oil, and honey. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and knead in the raisins, chopped almonds, chopped pistachios, and chopped dried apricots.
9. 9.
   Shape the dough into a wreath or a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
10. 10.
    Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
11. 11.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — Make sure to steep the saffron threads in warm water to extract their vibrant color and flavor.
• Semolina — The addition of semolina gives the bread a slightly denser texture. It also adds a subtle nutty flavor.
• Honey — Use a good quality honey to enhance the sweetness and aroma of the bread.
• Dried fruits and nuts — Feel free to customize the bread by adding your favorite dried fruits and nuts. You can substitute or add ingredients like dates, figs, walnuts, or cashews for variety.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can soak the raisins in warm water or rum before adding them to the dough.
• To enhance the aroma, lightly toast the chopped almonds and pistachios before adding them to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can drizzle some honey on top of the baked bread while it's still warm.
• Serve the bread warm or toasted with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a delicious treat.
• This bread can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Serving advice

Serve the Algerian-inspired Festive Christmas Bread as a centerpiece during holiday gatherings. Slice it and arrange it on a platter, allowing guests to help themselves. It pairs well with a cup of Algerian mint tea or a warm spiced coffee.

Presentation advice

To enhance the festive presentation, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the bread before serving. You can also decorate it with whole almonds, pistachios, and dried apricots for an extra touch of elegance.