Description
This No-Oven Stovetop Bread recipe offers a delightful way to bake a soft, golden loaf without the need for an oven. Using simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, yeast, and olive oil, you’ll create a delicious homemade bread cooked entirely on the stovetop in a heavy-bottomed skillet. Perfect for those without an oven or anyone looking to try a new bread-baking method, this bread boasts a tender crumb and crispy crust in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Cooking
- Additional olive oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until the texture is smooth and elastic, essential for good bread structure.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air bubbles. Shape it into a round loaf suitable for your skillet size.
- Prepare the Skillet: Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, over low heat. Lightly grease the skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Bread, Side One: Place the dough into the skillet, cover it with a tight-fitting lid, and cook on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Check that the bottom has turned golden brown and is cooking evenly without burning.
- Flip and Cook, Side Two: Carefully flip the bread using a spatula or tongs. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the bread is cooked through fully.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the skillet and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Maintain very low heat during cooking to ensure the bread cooks evenly without burning the crust.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan like cast iron for best heat distribution.
- Optionally brush the finished loaf with melted butter or olive oil for extra flavor and a shiny crust.
- Ensure the skillet has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam, which helps the bread cook thoroughly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 to 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Universal
