Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread

Ingredients

While the original Belgian Cougnou is typically made with raisins and shaped into a baby Jesus figure, the Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread incorporates local ingredients and cultural symbolism. The Chukchi version omits raisins and instead focuses on the delicate sweetness of the bread itself. The shape of the bread is transformed into a figure resembling a Chukchi person, reflecting the cultural significance of the Chukchi people. We alse have the original recipe for Cougnou, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 20g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 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 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. 8.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
9. 9.
   Shape each portion into a figure resembling a Chukchi person or any desired shape.
10. 10.
    Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. 11.
    Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
14. 14.
    Dust the Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is melted and cooled slightly before adding it to the dough. This will prevent the heat from killing the yeast.
• Active dry yeast — Ensure the yeast is fresh and active by checking the expiration date and testing it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. If it doesn't foam after 5 minutes, the yeast may be inactive, and you'll need to start with fresh yeast.

Tips & Tricks

• For a Chukchi-inspired twist, you can add a touch of Arctic flavors by incorporating a teaspoon of ground sea buckthorn or lingonberry powder into the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of the shaped dough before baking.
• To achieve a shiny crust, brush the shaped dough with an egg wash made by whisking together an egg and a tablespoon of milk before baking.
• Serve the Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of cloudberry jam for an extra burst of flavor.
• Leftover bread can be toasted and enjoyed with butter or used to make delicious French toast.

Serving advice

Serve the Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread as a centerpiece for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Slice it and serve it with a spread of butter or your favorite jam. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the Chukchi-inspired Sweet Bread with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also place fresh berries or edible flowers around the bread to add a pop of color and create an inviting display.