Traditional St Joseph Bread Recipe To Bake

If you’re looking for a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, look no further than the charming tradition of St. Joseph’s table. This Italian custom is not just about food; it’s about sharing with family and friends, honoring St. Joseph, and celebrating the coming of spring.

Breads for the St. Joseph’s Table

One of the star attractions on St. Joseph’s table is the variety of breads that grace the feast. These breads are often elaborately shaped and beautifully decorated, symbolizing abundance and community. Here’s a traditional recipe to create your own St. Joseph’s bread.

St. Joseph’s Table Bread ### Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
2 eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, olive oil, eggs, and lemon zest.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into braids or round loaves.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped dough on a lined baking sheet and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade St. Joseph’s bread with family and friends!

As you prepare this delightful bread, remember it’s not just about the ingredients, but also about the love and joy that goes into sharing it. Buon Appetito!