Traditional Serbian Česnica Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water 300ml (1 ¼ cups) warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp rosemary leaves, finely chopped 1 tbsp rosemary leaves, finely chopped
• 1 small coin or trinket (wrapped in foil for safety) 1 small coin or trinket (wrapped in foil for safety)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and rosemary. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 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 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
7. 7.
   Before baking, insert the wrapped coin or trinket into the dough, ensuring it is well hidden.
8. 8.
   Bake the Česnica in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Active dry yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active by checking the expiration date. If the yeast doesn't froth after dissolving it in warm water, it may be inactive, and the bread won't rise properly.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or coarse salt on top of the bread before baking.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread with a clean kitchen towel immediately after removing it from the oven.
• For a festive touch, decorate the bread with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Česnica bread warm or at room temperature. It is often enjoyed as part of a festive meal, alongside various Serbian dishes.

Presentation advice

Present the Česnica bread on a wooden cutting board or a decorative bread basket. You can also place a sprig of rosemary on top for an elegant touch.