Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Bread

Ingredients

While the original Samoon from Iraqi cuisine is a type of flatbread, the Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Bread is a soft and fluffy loaf. The spices used in the Antiguan and Barbudan version, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, give it a distinct Caribbean flavor profile. Additionally, the cooking technique and ingredients have been adapted to suit the target cuisine, incorporating local ingredients and traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Samoon, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 12g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a 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 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).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan.
8. 8.
   Cover the pan with the kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. 10.
    Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• All-purpose flour — Make sure to measure the flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This will prevent the bread from becoming too dense.
• Active dry yeast — Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures that the bread rises properly.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice — Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor. If possible, grate whole nutmeg and grind whole cinnamon sticks for a more intense aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough before kneading.
• Serve the bread warm with a dollop of butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the amount of sugar to 3/4 cup.
• Experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Toast leftover slices of bread and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Serving advice

Slice the Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Bread into thick slices and serve it warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar before serving. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal.