Traditional Hainanese Bread Recipe

October 21, 2023 Post a Comment

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Looking for a classic, delicious bread recipe that will transport you to the tropical paradise of Hainan Island? Look no further than this traditional Hainanese bread recipe! With its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, this bread is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or any time of day. Here's everything you need to know to make it at home.

Description

Hainanese bread is a traditional bread that originates from the tropical island of Hainan, located off the southern coast of China. It's known for its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, which comes from the use of coconut milk and sugar in the recipe. Hainanese bread is typically served as a breakfast or snack food, often paired with kaya (a coconut jam) or butter and sugar.

Prep time

The total prep time for this recipe is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including time for rising the dough.

Cook time

The cook time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes.

Ingredients

500g bread flour
50g sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp instant yeast
250ml coconut milk
150ml water
1 egg
50g butter, softened

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Kitchen scale
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Bread knife
Oven

Method

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
Add the coconut milk, water, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Add the softened butter to the dough and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and knead it briefly. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
Brush the risen dough balls with a beaten egg or some melted butter, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool before serving.

Notes

If you don't have instant yeast, you can use active dry yeast instead. Just be sure to proof it first in some warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.
If you don't have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout!
If you want a slightly sweeter bread, you can add a bit more sugar to the recipe.

Nutrition Info

This recipe makes 12 servings. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 221
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 226mg

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this bread without coconut milk?

While coconut milk is a traditional ingredient in Hainanese bread, you can substitute it with another type of milk if you prefer. Just be aware that this will change the flavor of the bread slightly.

Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze this bread once it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave it for a few seconds.

What should I serve with Hainanese bread?

Traditionally, Hainanese bread is served with kaya (a coconut jam) or butter and sugar. You can also use it to make sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own.

Recipe Tips

Be sure to use warm water when making this recipe, as it will help activate the yeast and help the dough rise.
Don't skip the step of letting the dough rise! This is what gives the bread its soft, fluffy texture.
If you want to make smaller or larger buns, adjust the size of the dough balls accordingly. Just be aware that the baking time may need to be adjusted as well.