Honduran Son Bread

Ingredients

While the original Pain au son is a French bread made primarily with wheat flour, the Honduran Son Bread incorporates a mix of whole grain flours, such as cornmeal and whole wheat flour, to add a distinct Honduran touch. Additionally, the spices used in the Honduran version, such as cumin and coriander, give the bread a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from its French counterpart. We alse have the original recipe for Pain au son, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour 2 cups (240g) whole wheat flour
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (30g) brown sugar 2 tablespoons (30g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) active dry yeast 1 tablespoon (15g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds, for topping 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cornmeal, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, yeast, salt, cumin, and coriander.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes 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 about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top of the loaf, gently pressing them into the dough.
8. 8.
   Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. 9.
   Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Whole wheat flour — Make sure to use whole wheat flour for its nutty flavor and added nutritional benefits.
• Cornmeal — Opt for fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a smoother texture in the bread.
• Active dry yeast — Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can incorporate chopped jalapeños or diced onions into the dough.
• Experiment with different spices like paprika or chili powder to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Serve the bread warm with a drizzle of honey or alongside traditional Honduran dishes like baleadas or plátanos fritos.
• To make the bread extra crispy, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving advice

Honduran Son Bread is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve it as a side to traditional Honduran dishes, use it to make sandwiches, or simply enjoy it on its own with a spread of butter or honey.

Presentation advice

To showcase the rustic charm of the Honduran Son Bread, present it on a wooden cutting board or a traditional Honduran woven basket. Sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top for an added visual appeal.