Macedonian Walnut Pogača

Ingredients

In the Macedonian adaptation of the Slovenian Pogača, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Macedonian cuisine. This includes the use of local walnuts, which add a distinct nuttiness to the bread. Additionally, we adjust the seasoning and spices to align with the Macedonian flavor profile, ensuring an authentic culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Pogača z oreji, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 150g (1 ½ cups) chopped walnuts 150g (1 ½ cups) chopped walnuts
• 1 tbsp dried oregano 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried parsley 1 tbsp dried parsley

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center and pour in the warm milk, olive oil, and beaten eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until 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 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and knead in the chopped walnuts, dried oregano, and dried parsley until well incorporated.
7. 7.
   Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 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 and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before chopping and adding them to the dough. This will enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can brush the top of the bread with olive oil and sprinkle some sea salt before baking.
• Serve the Macedonian Walnut Pogača warm with a dollop of Macedonian ajvar or feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread with a clean kitchen towel immediately after removing it from the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Macedonian Walnut Pogača as a side dish with Macedonian stews, soups, or salads. It is also delicious on its own or with a spread of butter.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts and dried oregano on top of the bread before baking. This will add visual appeal and highlight the flavors of the ingredients.