Maltese Bread (ftira Maltija)
Maltese Bread, also known as Ftira Maltija, is a traditional bread from the Mediterranean island of Malta. This rustic and hearty bread is perfect for making sandwiches or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 30 minutes
- Total time:
- 50 minutes
- Cooking method
- Oven
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 150 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Protein
- 5g
- Fat
- 1g
Supplies
Baking sheet Parchment paper Mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Kitchen towel Wire rack
Tools
Oven
Serving suggestions
Serve the Maltese Bread with a spread of olive tapenade and a selection of cured meats and cheeses for a Mediterranean-inspired platter.
Tips & tricks
For a crispier crust, place a small pan of water in the bottom of the oven while baking the bread to create steam.
Cost
$5