Forget the bland store-bought rolls. Today, we’re whisking you away to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with a twist on the classic: Tsoureki with Orange Juice! This braided bread isn’t just a visual masterpiece; it’s an explosion of flavour, where tangy citrus and sweet dough dance on your palate with every bite.
Imagine fluffy strands, golden-browned and glistening with a honey glaze, carrying the essence of freshly squeezed oranges. Each tear reveals a pillowy interior, redolent of warm spices and a hint of vanilla. This isn’t just bread; it’s a celebration, a taste of Greek tradition reborn in your kitchen.
So ditch the ordinary and get ready to braid, twist, and sprinkle your way to citrusy bliss. This Tsoureki recipe is your key to unlocking a taste of the Mediterranean, one irresistible bite at a time.
Tsoureki Recipe With Orange Juice
Equipment
- Mixer with dough hook
- Plastic wrap
- Baking paper
- Cloth
- Workspace
- Oven (preheated to 160 degrees Celsius)
- Baking tray
- Brush
- Flaked almonds (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 kilogram of flour
- 300 grams of sugar
- 27 grams of yeast
- 5 grams of ground maxlepi
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla
- 4 grams of ground mastixa
- 240 milliliters of milk
- Zest of 1 orange
- 100 milliliters of orange juice
- 3 medium eggs
- 150 grams of melted butter
Instructions
- Combine the first 6 ingredients in a mixer – just toss them in there! Let it all mingle for a minute using that trusty dough hook.
- Now, throw in the next 5 ingredients and let the mixer work its magic for a good 10-15 minutes. You're looking for that perfect, elastic dough. Check if it's got that window effect – you know, stretchy and translucent.
- Once your dough's looking all fabulous, cover it up with some plastic wrap and let it chill in a cozy spot until it doubles in size.
- Give it some love – stretch and fold that dough like 3 or 4 times.
- Now, pour that beautiful dough onto your workspace. Cut it into 6 pieces and roll them out into long ropes – imagine you're crafting the perfect tsoureki.
- Speaking of which, here's the secret braiding ritual: Join the tops of the three ropes, and keep crossing over the outer sides into the middle. Then, bring those edges together, tucking them in and under the top part.
- Lay your soon-to-be masterpiece on some baking paper. Cover it up with a cloth and let it bask in a warm spot until it decides to double in size.
- Glaze it with a mix of 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of milk. Sprinkle some flaked almonds on top and, for that extra charm, nestle an egg in the middle of your tsoureki.
- Pop it in a preheated oven at 160 degrees and let it dance in there for 25 to 30 minutes until it's golden brown and irresistible.
Video
Notes
- Ensure your mixer is properly secured and the dough hook is attached before combining the first 6 ingredients. Start the mixer on low speed initially to prevent any dry ingredients from flying out.
- Keep an eye on the dough during the 10-15 minutes of mixing. You’re aiming for elasticity – a smooth and stretchy texture. The “window effect” refers to the dough’s ability to stretch thin without tearing, indicating proper gluten development.
- Place the covered dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage proper rising. This helps in doubling the size.
- When braiding the ropes for the tsoureki, be gentle to maintain the airiness of the dough. Crossing the outer sides into the middle and tucking in the edges ensures a beautifully braided appearance.
- Whisk the egg and milk for the glaze just before applying it for a shiny finish. Carefully place flaked almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Preheat the oven thoroughly to 160 degrees Celsius. Keep an eye on the tsoureki during baking; every oven varies, so adjust the time if needed. Aim for a golden brown color.
What Can I Add To Dough To Make It Less Sticky?
If you find your dough too sticky during the baking process, there are several remedies to achieve a more manageable consistency. One effective solution is to gradually add more flour. Start by incorporating small amounts at a time, allowing the flour to fully integrate before assessing the texture. This incremental approach prevents overcompensating and ending up with overly dry dough.
Another method involves adjusting the hydration levels by incorporating ingredients like flour or oats. These absorb excess moisture, helping to balance the dough’s stickiness. However, it’s essential to introduce these ingredients slowly, continually assessing the dough’s consistency.
Consider dusting your hands and work surface with flour while kneading or shaping the dough. This prevents the dough from sticking to your hands and minimizes the need for excessive flour incorporation into the mixture.
Furthermore, extending the kneading time can contribute to a less sticky dough. As you knead, the gluten structure develops, aiding in moisture absorption. Be patient and persistent during this step, allowing the dough to transform into a smoother, more elastic texture.
Additionally, incorporating fats, such as butter or oil, can help reduce stickiness. Fats coat the gluten strands, minimizing their ability to bind with water and reducing overall stickiness. Add fats gradually and adjust as needed.
Can I Substitute Fresh Oranges For Orange Juice In The Tsoureki Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh oranges for orange juice in the Tsoureki recipe, but it’s important to consider the potential impact on the overall texture and flavour of the Greek Easter bread. Using fresh oranges introduces the complexity of pulp and fibres, which may alter the consistency of the dough.
To make this substitution, extract the juice from fresh oranges and strain it to remove pulp and seeds. Adjust the quantity to match the amount of orange juice specified in the recipe. Additionally, incorporating finely grated orange zest can intensify the citrus aroma and flavour without affecting the dough’s texture.
What Can I Have With Tsoureki Recipe Made With Orange Juice
While Tsoureki is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary accompaniments can make it better.
1. Clotted Cream and Honey
Spread a generous layer of clotted cream on a slice of orange-infused Tsoureki. Drizzle a spoonful of golden honey on top to enhance the bread’s sweetness and add a luxurious, velvety texture.
The combination of creamy clotted cream, aromatic honey, and citrus-infused Tsoureki creates a symphony of flavours that will leave your taste buds singing.
2. Greek Yogurt and Fresh Berries
Top a slice with a dollop of thick Greek yoghurt and adorn it with a vibrant assortment of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
This pairing not only adds a burst of colour but also introduces a delightful contrast in textures and flavours, creating a balanced and refreshing ensemble.
3. Nutella and Sliced Bananas
The hazelnut-chocolate goodness of Nutella complements the citrus notes, creating a heavenly combination.
For an extra layer of flavour and creaminess, add thin slices of ripe bananas on top. This pairing is a delightful treat that combines rich, nutty chocolate with the fruity essence of orange.
4. Orange Marmalade and Almond Butter
Pair it with the nutty richness of almond butter for a delightful contrast. The sweet and tangy notes of the marmalade, combined with the creamy texture of almond butter, create a mouthwatering experience that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
5. Espresso or Greek Coffee
Complement the sweetness of your orange-infused Tsoureki with a bold cup of espresso or traditional Greek coffee. The robust flavours of the coffee cut through the sweetness of the bread, creating a harmonious balance.
The ritual of enjoying Tsoureki with a steaming cup of coffee adds a cultural touch, making it a perfect pairing for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
