Masna Pogača - Bosnian Flaky 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
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 125g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted 125g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 125g (1/2 cup) plain yogurt 125g (1/2 cup) plain yogurt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and yogurt.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   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.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin rectangle.
7. 7.
   Brush melted butter over the first rectangle and place the second rectangle on top. Repeat this process with the remaining rectangles, stacking them on top of each other.
8. 8.
   Cut the stacked dough into squares or triangles and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yogurt — Make sure to use plain yogurt without any added flavors or sweeteners. Greek yogurt can also be used as a substitute for regular yogurt.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flaky texture, you can brush additional melted butter between the layers of dough.
• Serve Masna Pogača warm for the best taste and texture.
• This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or toaster before serving to regain its crispiness.

Serving advice

Masna Pogača is best served warm as a side dish to accompany a variety of meals. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with soups, stews, or grilled meats. Cut it into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer or serve larger slices as a main accompaniment.

Presentation advice

To present Masna Pogača, place it on a wooden cutting board or a decorative serving platter. You can sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for an added visual appeal. Serve it alongside a bowl of flavored butter or a selection of dips for a complete experience.