Armenian Choereg Bread

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground mahleb 1 teaspoon ground mahleb
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat: 9g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Carbohydrates: 44g (Sugars: 12g)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and ground mahleb.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and warm water.
4. 4.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1 inch thick.
7. 7.
   Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under to seal. Place the braided bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Cover the bread with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. 10.
    Brush the bread with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
11. 11.
    Bake the Choereg in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mahleb — Mahleb is a unique spice used in Armenian cuisine. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with ground cardamom for a similar aromatic touch.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure a good rise.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm place, free from drafts, for the best results.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the dough.
• Serve the Choereg warm with butter or cheese for a delightful treat.
• Leftover Choereg can be toasted and enjoyed with jam or as a base for sandwiches.

Serving advice

Serve the Armenian Choereg bread as a centerpiece during festive occasions or enjoy it as a delightful accompaniment to meals. It pairs well with a variety of spreads, cheeses, or even enjoyed on its own.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Choereg, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the bread just before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.