Pan Aliñado Colombiano

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
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar 10g (2 tsp) sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp dried oregano 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp dried thyme 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp paprika 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp black pepper 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp olive oil 2 tsp olive oil
• 350ml (1 ½ cups) warm water 350ml (1 ½ cups) warm water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

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, salt, cumin, oregano, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
4. 4.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   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 it doubles in size.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf or desired shapes.
9. 9.
   Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. 10.
    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in the dough.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor.
• Olive oil — Use extra virgin olive oil for a more pronounced taste in the bread.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the bread.
• Serve the Pan Aliñado warm with a drizzle of olive oil or alongside your favorite Colombian dishes.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• This bread is perfect for making sandwiches or toasting for a delicious breakfast.

Serving advice

Serve the Pan Aliñado as a side dish with soups, stews, or grilled meats. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or breakfast treat.

Presentation advice

Present the Pan Aliñado on a rustic wooden board or a bread basket lined with a colorful cloth. Sprinkle some dried herbs on top for an added visual appeal.