Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey to the coastal town of Olhão in Portugal with Folar de Olhão, a traditional Easter bread that encapsulates the essence of local flavors and age-old traditions. This delightful bread, enriched with a unique blend of spices and citrus, brings a sense of warmth and community to your table. Join me as we delve into the art of crafting Folar de Olhão—a true taste of tradition.

Who is This Recipe For?

Folar de Olhão is for those who appreciate the richness of cultural heritage expressed through food. Whether you’re a seasoned baker with a love for international recipes or someone curious about exploring the flavors of Portugal, this recipe is a wonderful choice. Share Folar de Olhão with loved ones during Easter or any special occasion, and savor the communal spirit it embodies.

What Makes it Great?

What sets Folar de Olhão apart is the combination of aromatic spices, citrusy notes, and the rich texture of the bread. This Easter bread is not merely a culinary creation; it’s a celebration of Olhão’s maritime traditions and the cultural richness that defines this coastal town. Folar de Olhão is a testament to the enduring connection between food and community.

Ingredients

To embark on this taste of tradition, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup warm milk
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 lemon

Directions

Let’s dive into the process of creating this taste of Olhão:

For the Dough:

1. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and spices.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, orange zest, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
4. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (approximately 1-2 hours).

For the Filling:

1. In a bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, dried figs, raisins, honey, cinnamon, and lemon zest.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions.
3. Roll out each portion into a rectangle and spread half of the filling over each.
4. Roll up each rectangle tightly and place them seam side down on a baking sheet.
5. Cover and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.

Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Folares for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Allow them to cool before slicing and serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To bring the taste of tradition, Folar de Olhão, to life, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush

Recipe Tips and Variations

Tips:

• Ensure the milk is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts for a personalized touch.

Variations:

• Add a splash of traditional Portuguese liqueur, such as Aguardente, to the filling for an extra kick.
• Substitute part of the flour with cornmeal for a unique texture.

Storing Leftovers

Folar de Olhão can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread and bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Pairings

Pair this taste of tradition with a cup of Portuguese black tea or a glass of Moscatel wine. The spices and citrusy notes of Folar de Olhão complement the rich and robust flavors of the tea or wine, creating a delightful pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make Folar de Olhão without nuts?

A: Absolutely! Adjust the filling by omitting the nuts or replacing them with seeds for a nut-free version.

Q: Can I freeze Folar de Olhão?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooled bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use a stand mixer for kneading the dough?

A: Certainly! Use a dough hook attachment to knead the dough in a stand mixer for added convenience.

Conclusion

Folar de Olhão invites you to savor the flavors of Olhão’s rich traditions. Share the joy by baking this Easter bread, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delightful recipes. Happy baking!