Bread of the Dead

The Bread of the Dead is a unique and flavorful flatbread that brings a festive spirit to any occasion. This delightful recipe combines squid ink with earthy mushrooms, creating an eye-catching dish perfect for Halloween gatherings or themed parties. Not only does it look stunning, but the combination of fresh herbs and savory toppings makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a carnival-themed event or simply looking for an exciting meal, this bread will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of squid ink gives this flatbread a distinctive taste and striking appearance.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious pizzas ready in no time.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your flatbread with various toppings to suit any palate.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe yields four generous servings, making it great for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Bread of the Dead, having the right tools is essential. Prepare your kitchen with these must-have items before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort while kneading the dough, ensuring it’s well-mixed.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps achieve an even bake across all your flatbreads.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups bread flour
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (plus more to grease the bowl)
• 1/2 tsp squid ink
• 1 cup warm water (110 degrees)

For the Toppings

• 4 oz. button mushrooms (see mushroom skull preparation below)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup shallots, thinly sliced (substitute with red onion)
• 4-5 cloves garlic (sliced thin)
• 2 Tbsp cooking apple juice
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup jarred pesto sauce
• 1 cup Green Pesto Gouda cheese
• Mixed fresh herbs

For the Drizzle

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey

How to Make Bread of the Dead

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, garlic powder, salt, and active dry yeast.
2. Mix in the olive oil and squid ink until evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Grease the bowl lightly with olive oil and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Mushroom Skulls

1. While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
3. Add thinly sliced shallots and sauté until translucent.
4. Add sliced garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms are tender.
5. Stir in cooking apple juice and thyme leaves; season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Flatbreads

1. Once dough has risen, divide it into four equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into thin rounds using a rolling pin on a floured surface.
3. Transfer each round to a greased baking sheet.
4. Top each flatbread with pesto sauce, mushroom mixture, and shredded Green Pesto Gouda cheese.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

1. While baked flatbreads cool slightly, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Simmer until thickened slightly; drizzle over flatbreads before serving.
3. Garnish with mixed fresh herbs for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Bread of the Dead!

How to Serve Bread of the Dead

Bread of the Dead is a delightful flatbread pizza that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing complement the savory flavors of the flatbread.

Enjoy with Dips

• Hummus: A smooth chickpea dip enhances flavor and provides a healthy option.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip brings richness that contrasts nicely with the bread’s texture.

Complement with Drinks

• Herbal Iced Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened herbal tea serves as a perfect thirst quencher.
• Sparkling Water: Bubbly sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Bread of the Dead

To achieve the best results when making your Bread of the Dead, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is around 110 degrees Fahrenheit to activate the yeast effectively.
• Knead Well: Kneading the dough for at least 10 minutes will develop gluten and create a better texture.
• Let it Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size for optimal fluffiness.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Bread of the Dead

Bread of the Dead pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized enhance flavors.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for an easy and tasty side.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty contrast.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy offer a satisfying crunch alongside your flatbreads.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds brightness and crunch to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits offers a refreshing sweetness that balances savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bread of the Dead, it’s easy to make common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your flatbread turns out perfectly.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure consistency in your dough.
• Ignoring yeast proofing: Always activate your yeast with warm water before adding it to the mix. This helps ensure your bread rises properly.
• Using cold water: Make sure your water is warm (around 110 degrees). Cold water will hinder yeast activation, leading to dense bread.
• Overworking the dough: Knead just until combined. Over-kneading can lead to tough flatbreads instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial. It gives the gluten time to develop and makes rolling easier.
• Not seasoning adequately: Don’t forget to season your flatbread! Salt enhances flavor, so be generous but balanced.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Bread of the Dead in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Bread of the Dead

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Bread of the Dead

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-30 seconds. Avoid overheating as it can make the bread tough.
• Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Bread of the Dead, you’re not alone. Here are some common queries answered!

What is Bread of the Dead?

Bread of the Dead is a unique flatbread often associated with celebrations. It features a blend of flavors and can be topped with various ingredients.

Can I customize toppings on my Bread of the Dead?

Absolutely! You can use any toppings you prefer, such as different cheeses, vegetables, or herbs to suit your taste.

How do I ensure my Bread of the Dead rises well?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly with warm water. Also, allow it enough time to rise in a warm environment.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! This version avoids meat products while still being flavorful due to mushrooms and herbs.

How long does it take to prepare Bread of the Dead?

The total preparation time is about 1 hour, including resting time for the dough and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Bread of the Dead offers a delightful twist on traditional flatbreads, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings based on what you love most. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!