Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4–6 equal portions. Shape each piece into a tight, round ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover loosely and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using an egg wash, brush the tops before baking.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Let cool slightly, then cut off the tops and gently scoop out the centers. Fill with hot soup and serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
The beauty of bread bowls lies in their versatility. Serve them filled with creamy tomato basil soup for a classic combination, or try a hearty chili for something more filling. Pair your bread bowls with a light salad for a complete meal, or even a side of garlic butter for those who can’t resist a little extra indulgence.
How to store
If you find yourself with leftover bread bowls—though it rarely happens—store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with the rising and baking steps.
Helpful cooking tips
- Kneading is key: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your bread the desired chewiness.
- Perfect rising conditions: If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven preheated to the lowest setting—but turn it off before placing the dough inside to proof.
- Check for doneness: A golden-brown crust is essential for that delightful crunch—you can tap the bottom of the bowl to ensure it sounds hollow!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist. If you want to make these bread bowls more rustic, consider incorporating cheese such as grated Parmesan or cheddar into the dough. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but ensure to check the yeast’s compatibility.
FAQ
What’s the prep time for bread bowls?
The entire process takes about 2.5 hours, including rise times. However, the hands-on time is much less, around 30 minutes.
Can I make these without yeast?
You can use baking powder as a leavening agent, but the texture and flavor will differ. Yeast gives that classic bread flavor and fluffy texture.
What’s the best way to reheat filled bread bowls?
You can reheat the filled bowls in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure they stay crispy.
Now that you have the scoop, dive into this delightful adventure of bread-making. You won’t just be serving soup; you’ll be serving a treat that everyone will remember!
