Easy Pan Bread

1. Activate the Yeast

Activate the yeast by dissolving it in lukewarm water with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit until the yeast becomes foamy, usually about 5-10 minutes. This step ensures that your dough rises beautifully and gives your Easy Pan Bread the perfect light and airy texture.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 grams of plain flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, 170 millilitres of lukewarm water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the activated yeast.

Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for about 5-7 minutes.

Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a tea towel or cling film, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, carefully deflate it and knead it again on a lightly floured surface. After kneading, place the dough on lightly greased baking parchment and shape it into a disc about 2.5 cm (1”) thick. Cover it with a tea towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Cook

Heat a large frying pan over low heat, and lightly grease it with olive oil. Carefully place the risen dough into the heated pan. Cook the bread for about 10-12 minutes on each side, covering the pan with a lid. You want the bread to cook slowly to ensure it cooks through without burning on the outside. The bread should be golden brown on both sides and sound hollow when tapped.

5. Serve

Remove the Easy Pan Bread from the frying pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Easy Pan Bread

Proof the Yeast: Make sure your yeast is active. Check the expiration date and proof it by dissolving it in warm water with a little sugar.

Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, which is essential for good texture. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook and knead for about 5-7 minutes.

Control the Heat: Bake the bread over low heat to prevent the outside from burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.

Use a Lid: Covering the pan with a lid while cooking creates an oven-like environment, trapping the heat and steam so the bread cooks evenly.

Grease the Pan Well: Prevent sticking by greasing the pan adequately with oil or butter. This also helps create a nice, crispy crust.

Variations

Herb and Garlic Pan Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, and 1 minced garlic clove to the dough.

Cheese Pan Bread: Follow the main recipe, but fold in 50 grams of grated cheese like Parmesan, Cheddar, or Mozzarella after the first rise.

Olive and Sun-dried Tomato Pan Bread: After the first rise, fold in 50 grams of chopped olives and 25 grams of sun-dried tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish: Serve warm with pasta dishes, stews, or casseroles.

Dips and Spreads: Serve with a selection of dips and spreads, such as hummus, tzatziki, baba ganoush or pate.

Snack: Enjoy warm slices with a little butter or a spread of cream cheese.

Sandwiches: Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.

Related Recipes

Looking for more delicious bread recipes? Check out these recipes:

Garlic-Cheese Flatbread

Buttermilk Bread

Turkish Pide Bread

Conclusion

Baking bread on the stove is a simple but rewarding process that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious, fluffy bread that rivals any oven-baked bread. Whether you want to save time, avoid heating up the kitchen, or simply try a new method, this Easy Pan Bread recipe is sure to become your favourite. Enjoy the pleasure of homemade bread with minimal effort and maximum taste. Have fun baking!