Introduction
This Fluffy Potato Bread with Carrot and Herb Filling is a delightful twist on classic bread. Made with mashed potatoes for extra softness, the bread is stuffed with a flavorful carrot and herb filling that’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or light meal. Its golden crust and soft interior make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Potato Bread Dough:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
For the Carrot and Herb Filling:
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for golden crust)
Preparation Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill enhance the flavor of the filling, but dried herbs can be used as a substitute.
- Mash Potatoes Smoothly: Ensure the potatoes are fully mashed or use a ricer to avoid lumps in the dough.
- Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth and let them cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, mashed potatoes, yeast mixture, butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the carrot and herb filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the longer side. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the rolled dough seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cut shallow diagonal slashes on top for decoration.
- Brush the dough with the egg yolk mixture for a golden crust, if desired.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
This Fluffy Potato Bread is soft, flavorful, and packed with a savory carrot and herb filling. The mashed potatoes in the dough ensure a tender crumb, while the filling adds a burst of flavor in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted, but they will slightly alter the flavor and color of the bread.
2. Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the baked bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.
5. Can I add cheese to the filling?
Definitely! Grated cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan can be added to the filling for extra richness.
Recommendations
- Serve Warm: Enjoy freshly baked slices with butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with Soups: This bread pairs wonderfully with creamy soups like tomato or broccoli cheddar.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try spinach and feta, mushroom and onion, or even sun-dried tomatoes as alternative fillings.
Conclusion
This Fluffy Potato Bread with Carrot and Herb Filling is a versatile and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack or alongside your favorite dishes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy!