Belizean Chai Gravel Bread
Introduction to Belizean Chai Gravel Bread
Belizean Chai Gravel Bread is a unique fusion of traditional Belizean flavors and the warming spices of chai. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack with tea or coffee. The rustic nature of the bread draws inspiration from traditional Belizean baked goods and incorporates modern twists with the blend of chai spices. Historically, Belizean bread-making involves simple ingredients, with a focus on hearty and fulfilling flavors. This recipe captures the essence of this tradition while adding a touch of globalization with chai.
Ingredients for Belizean Chai Gravel Bread
- All-Purpose Flour - 3 cups
- Baking Powder - 1 tablespoon
- Sugar - 1/2 cup
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Butter - 1/2 cup, cold and cut into small pieces
- Chai Spice - 2 tablespoons (a mixture of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper)
- Whole Milk - 1 cup
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
- Eggs - 2 large, beaten
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you're ready to bake the bread.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and chai spice. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the chai spices are evenly distributed throughout the mix.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Add the butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse gravel. This process is crucial as it helps create the crumbly texture that is characteristic of the bread.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk, vanilla extract, and the beaten eggs. Ensure these ingredients are well combined and have achieved a consistent mixture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mix. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently stir until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
The Cooking Process
Step 6: Shape the Loaf
Once mixed, transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake
Place the prepared loaf into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Set a cooking timer to ensure precise timing and avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack. Allowing the bread to cool helps set its structure, making it easier to slice.
Enjoying Your Belizean Chai Gravel Bread
Belizean Chai Gravel Bread is best enjoyed warm, either plain or with a spread of fresh butter or jam. Consider pairing slices of the bread with a hot cup of chai tea or your favorite coffee for a complementary flavor experience. The warming chai spices combined with the rustic texture make each bite a comforting experience. Share with family and friends over breakfast or as an afternoon snack.