Tinian Spice Bread
Introduction
Tinian Spice Bread is a traditional delicacy hailing from the Northern Mariana Islands, specifically the beautiful island of Tinian. Known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, this bread represents the cultural fusion found on the island due to various influences over centuries, including Spanish, Chamorro, and other Pacific Islander cuisines. It is commonly made during festive seasons and family gatherings, cherished for its heartwarming taste and inviting aroma.
The recipe for Tinian Spice Bread has been passed down through generations, each family adding its unique touch, but the essence remains the same – a flavorful, spice-infused bread that captures the essence of Tinian's vibrant culinary heritage.
Ingredients
- Flour - 3 cups
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Baking Powder - 2 teaspoons
- Baking Soda - 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon
- Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Eggs - 3 large
- Milk - 1 cup
- Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
- Raisins - 1/2 cup
- Walnuts, chopped - 1/2 cup
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time the batter is ready. Proper pacing is crucial in baking, and preparing the oven in advance is a seasoned baker's trick for achieving that perfect bake.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Whisk together these dry ingredients until they are well blended, allowing the spices to marry with the flour uniformly. This mixture forms the base of your spice bread.
Mixing the Batter
In another bowl, beat the eggs and gradually add the sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This may take about 2 to 3 minutes of vigorous whisking or using a hand mixer. Slowly pour in the milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the mixture as you go.
As the wet ingredients become fully incorporated, fold in the melted butter. Ensure that the butter isn't hot enough to cook the eggs, but warm enough to blend smoothly. This adds a rich, buttery flavor and moisture to the bread.
Now, gently fold the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough stirring to bring everything together. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while the goal for Tinian Spice Bread is a light yet hearty crumb.
Adding the Raisins and Walnuts
Finally, add the raisins and chopped walnuts to the batter. These ingredients add texture and depth of flavor to the bread. Stir them in just until they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Cooking Process
Pour the prepared batter into a greased loaf pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and set a cooking timer for 45 minutes. Baking is a precise process, so try to avoid opening the oven door during baking as this can cause the bread to cook unevenly.
After 45 minutes, check the bread by inserting a toothpick or a skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, your bread is done. If not, allow the bread to bake for another 5 to 10 minutes and check again.
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before removing the bread from the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Tinian Spice Bread is best enjoyed warm, ideally with a pat of butter melting over each slice. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful breakfast, serve it with fresh fruit or a spread of your choice.
Whether served as a dessert or a midday snack, Tinian Spice Bread holds a place in both traditional and modern settings. Its aromatic spices and comforting taste make it a beloved treat across generations, bringing people together at the table to share not just the bread, but stories and laughter.