Portuguese Bread Recipe
Do you love soft, warm and slightly sweet bread? Then this Portuguese Bread Recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water about 110°F / 43°C
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 egg for brushing
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Stir well to distribute evenly.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix with a spoon until dough starts to form.
Knead the Dough
- Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise 1 hour until doubled.
Shape the Dough
- Punch down the dough. Shape into a round or oval loaf. Place on a greased baking sheet.
Second Rise
- Cover loaf with a towel. Let it rise 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush loaf with beaten egg for a shiny crust if desired.
Bake the Bread
- Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom; it should sound hollow.
Cool Before Slicing
- Remove bread from oven. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use warm water for activating yeast; too hot or cold will not work.
- Knead dough well for soft, fluffy bread.
- Cover dough while rising to keep it moist.
- Brush with egg for a golden crust, or use water for softer crust.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container for 2–3 days.