Broa de Milho (Portuguese Cornbread) Recipe
Broa de Milho is a traditional Portuguese cornbread that boasts a dense, moist texture with a rich, earthy flavor. Made from a blend of cornmeal and wheat flour, this bread is a staple in many Portuguese households. It pairs beautifully with soups, stews, and is delightful on its own with a bit of butter. Here’s how to make your own Broa de Milho at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (320g) yellow cornmeal (fubá)
- 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (150g) whole wheat flour
- 2 ¼ cups (540ml) warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp (5g) sugar
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey for a touch of sweetness
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 105°F or 40°C) with the sugar. Stir until dissolved.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will help your bread rise properly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
- Stir the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
3. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
- Once the yeast has activated, add it to the dry ingredients along with the olive oil.
- If you prefer a slightly sweet flavor, you can also add 1 tablespoon of honey at this stage.
- Mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms.
4. Kneading the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. The dough will be sticky due to the cornmeal, but it should start to come together as you knead.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time. However, avoid adding too much, as the dough should remain slightly sticky for a moist crumb.
5. First Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Bread:
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air.
- Transfer the dough back onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
- Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf loosely with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes. The loaf should puff up slightly but won’t double in size.
8. Preheat the Oven:
- While the bread is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place an empty baking pan on the bottom rack of the oven. This will be used to create steam, which helps form a nice crust on the bread.
9. Baking the Bread:
- Before placing the bread in the oven, slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand without splitting unevenly.
- Place the bread on the middle rack of the preheated oven.
- Carefully pour about 1 cup of water into the empty baking pan on the bottom rack. Be cautious of the steam that will immediately rise.
- Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cooling and Serving:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the interior sets properly and doesn’t become gummy.
Serving Suggestions:
Broa de Milho is incredibly versatile. It’s often enjoyed with soups like caldo verde, or simply slathered with butter or cheese. The dense, slightly crumbly texture of the bread makes it perfect for soaking up sauces or gravies.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and not past its expiration date. This is crucial for getting a good rise.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Over-kneading can lead to a tough bread. Knead just until the dough comes together and becomes smooth.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: For a unique twist, consider adding ingredients like olives, herbs, or seeds to the dough.
Broa de Milho is a hearty, flavorful bread that’s sure to become a favorite. Its rustic charm and rich history make it more than just a side dish—it’s a piece of Portuguese culture. Enjoy baking this traditional bread and savoring the taste of Portugal in your own kitchen!
