Colombian-Style Somun Bread

Ingredients

Colombian-Style Somun Bread differs from the original Turkish Somun bread by incorporating Colombian spices and herbs, which infuse the bread with a distinct flavor. Additionally, the cooking technique may vary slightly to adapt to Colombian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Somun, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar 10g (2 tsp) sugar
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 60ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil 60ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp paprika

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   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.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal-sized portions. Shape each portion into a round ball.
7. 7.
   In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, dried oregano, and paprika.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the spice mixture over the dough balls, pressing it gently to adhere.
9. 9.
   Place the spiced dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cumin — Toast the cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before grinding them for a more intense flavor.
• Dried oregano — Crush the dried oregano between your palms before adding it to the dough to release its aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
• Serve the bread warm with Colombian soups or stews for a comforting meal.
• Leftover bread can be sliced and toasted for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Serving advice

Serve Colombian-Style Somun Bread as a side dish with traditional Colombian meals, such as Bandeja Paisa or Ajiaco. It can also be enjoyed on its own with a spread of butter or avocado.

Presentation advice

Present the Colombian-Style Somun Bread on a rustic wooden board or a colorful Colombian textile to showcase its cultural fusion. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, on top for an added touch of freshness.