Niuean Coconut Bread

Ingredients

While Himbasha is a traditional Ethiopian bread flavored with spices like cardamom and cinnamon, Niuean Coconut Bread focuses on the tropical flavors of coconut. The original dish's spices are replaced with the rich and creamy taste of coconut, giving the bread a distinct Niuean twist. We alse have the original recipe for Himbasha, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons (10g) active dry yeast 2 teaspoons (10g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut, for topping 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the coconut milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 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.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top of the loaf.
9. 9.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Shredded coconut — Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown for added flavor and crunch.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer coconut flavor, you can substitute coconut oil for the melted butter.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to your liking.
• Serve the Niuean Coconut Bread warm with a spread of butter or jam for a delightful breakfast treat.
• This bread is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is baked, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Niuean Coconut Bread is best served warm. Slice it and serve it with a spread of butter or your favorite tropical jam for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional shredded coconut on top of the bread just before serving. You can also serve it on a tropical-themed platter or wrap it in banana leaves for an authentic touch.