Greek Olive Bread

If you are looking for a rustic homemade bread that is full of Mediterranean flavor, this Greek Olive Bread (Rustic Eliopsomo) is a wonderful recipe to try. Made with olive oil, herbs, and briny black olives, this loaf is soft on the inside with a beautifully golden crust on the outside. It is perfect for serving with soups, salads, cheese boards, or simply enjoying warm with a drizzle of olive oil.

Ingredients

• 400 g flour
• 100 g black olives, chopped
• 60 ml olive oil
• 250 ml warm water
• 7 g dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon rosemary or oregano

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes slightly foamy.
2. Mix the dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Add the olives and herbs: Gently knead in the chopped olives and rosemary or oregano until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the loaf: Punch down the dough gently and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
7. Prepare to bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped dough on a baking tray or parchment-lined pan.
8. Bake: Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and serve: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

This Greek Olive Bread (Rustic Eliopsomo) is a simple but flavorful homemade loaf that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its fragrant herbs, rich olive oil, and savory olives, it is a bread that feels both rustic and special. Bake it once, and it may quickly become one of your favorite homemade bread recipes for everyday meals and special gatherings alike.