Ugandan Sweet Bread

Ingredients

While the original Azerbaijani Shirin Chorek is typically made with ingredients like saffron and raisins, the Ugandan Sweet Bread recipe incorporates local flavors and ingredients to adapt to the Ugandan cuisine. The use of cardamom and nutmeg adds a distinct East African touch to the bread, while honey replaces the sugar for a more natural sweetness. Additionally, the baking technique is adjusted to suit Ugandan bread-making traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Shirin chorek, 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 cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (30g) raisins (optional, for added sweetness) 1/4 cup (30g) raisins (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional, for added texture) 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional, for added texture)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 16g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cardamom, nutmeg, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, honey, and eggs.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring 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 it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf or desired shapes.
8. 8.
   Place the shaped dough onto the greased baking pan and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. 10.
    Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cardamom — Use freshly ground cardamom for the best flavor.
• Nutmeg — Grate whole nutmeg for a more intense aroma.
• Honey — Opt for locally sourced honey to enhance the Ugandan touch.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water before adding them to the dough for plumpness.
• Chopped nuts — Toast the nuts lightly for added crunchiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, brush the top of the bread with melted butter before baking.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as peanuts or cashews, for added variety.
• Serve the bread warm with a spread of butter or honey for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the amount of sugar or add additional honey.
• Store the bread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Serving advice

Ugandan Sweet Bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Slice it and serve it as a delightful breakfast treat or as a snack with a cup of Ugandan tea or coffee. Spread some butter or honey on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Ugandan Sweet Bread, dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle a glaze made with honey and lemon juice. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a traditional Ugandan woven mat for an authentic touch.