Pão de São Paulo
Pão de São Paulo is a classic Brazilian bread that reflects the rich culinary heritage of São Paulo. This bread is known for its soft interior and golden crust, making it a staple in many households. With influences from Portuguese and Italian immigrants, this bread showcases the diverse culture of São Paulo, a city that is often referred to as the gastronomic heart of Brazil. Traditionally, this bread is enjoyed fresh from the oven with a thin layer of butter, accompanied by a cup of strong Brazilian coffee. As you embark on making this delicious bread, you’ll be participating in a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients
- Flour: 4 cups all-purpose
- Yeast: 1 packet (2 and 1/4 teaspoons) instant
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons granulated
- Salt: 1 and 1/2 teaspoons
- Milk: 1 cup warm
- Butter: 3 tablespoons unsalted, melted
- Egg: 1 large, beaten
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the yeast with warm milk and sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with flour, salt, melted butter, and beaten egg. Use a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook to blend the ingredients. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. This rise time is crucial for developing the bread's texture and flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Bread
Punch down the dough to release the air and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a loaf by folding and pinching the seams together. Place the dough seam side down in a parchment-lined loaf pan.
Cooking Process
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour until it doubles in size once more. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 6: Baking
Brush the top of the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with optional sesame seeds. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. It's essential to monitor the cooking time to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the bread.
Step 7: Cooling
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Enjoy Pão de São Paulo
Enjoy Pão de São Paulo warm, fresh from the oven with a slather of butter. It is perfect for breakfast paired with coffee or as an accompaniment with meals. This bread's soft texture and mild sweetness make it versatile, allowing you to use it for sandwiches, toast, or even as a base for bruschetta. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a meal, Pão de São Paulo brings a taste of Brazilian comfort food to your table.