1 1/4 cups of warm water
1 packet of active dry yeast
1/4 teaspoon of salt
3 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour
buttermilk at room temperature
2 tablespoons of dried thyme
250g of defatted bacon
1 1/4 cups of warm water
1 packet of active dry yeast
1/4 teaspoon of salt
3 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour
buttermilk at room temperature
2 tablespoons of dried thyme
250g of defatted bacon
Mix the warm water and yeast in a bowl and let it rest for 2 minutes
Add 2 cups of flour, salt, and 3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and mix until smooth
Batter well for 2 to 3 minutes
Add another cup of flour and batter again
Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until it is smooth, soft, and elastic
Add more flour if needed
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turn once to grease the other side, and cover
Allow to rise in a protected area for 1 hour
Grease a baking sheet
Lower the dough and add 2 tablespoons of buttermilk, thyme, and bacon, and shape into desired form
To prepare the bacon, remove the rind
Cut into small pieces and fry over high heat until golden brown
Lower the heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes, removing excess fat as it forms
This excess fat can be used in making bread
Shape the dough into 4 equal portions
Form 2 rolls of 45cm length and seal the ends by pressing
Repeat with remaining dough
(See how to make in "Secrets for a Delicious Bread")
Place on prepared baking sheet, cover with cloth, and let rise in a protected area until doubled in volume (about 30 minutes)
Baste with melted butter or margarine, or buttermilk from the bacon, and bake in a moderate oven (180°C) for 35 to 40 minutes
Let the bread cool on a plate
Distribute into 2 loaves.