Marmite Breads Recipe
Marmite bread is a delightful way to enjoy the unique and savory flavor of Marmite in a homemade bread.
Whether you love Marmite or are just curious about incorporating it into baking, this recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and aromatic loaf or rolls that perfectly blend the distinct taste of Marmite with the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Marmite
- 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1-2 tablespoons Marmite
- Optional: grated cheddar cheese or sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, olive oil, and Marmite until the Marmite is well dissolved.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture along with the Marmite mixture.
Mix until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more warm water, a tablespoon at a time.
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into equal portions to make rolls.
Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise:
Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has doubled in size again.
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and Marmite. If you prefer a stronger Marmite flavor, add more Marmite to taste.
Brush the top of the risen dough with the Marmite butter mixture. For added flavor and texture, you can sprinkle grated cheddar cheese or sea salt on top.
Bake the Bread:
Bake the loaf or rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serve the Marmite bread warm or at room temperature, with butter or your favorite spread.
Tips for Success:
Yeast Activation: Ensure your water and milk are warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast without killing it. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (45°C).
Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to develop the gluten structure, which gives the bread its chewy texture.
Rising Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove.
Marmite Flavor: Adjust the amount of Marmite to your taste. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Variations:
Cheese and Marmite Swirl Bread:
After the first rise, roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread a mixture of Marmite and grated cheddar cheese over the surface. Roll up the dough tightly, then shape it into a loaf or cut into rolls. Allow to rise again before baking.
Marmite and Herb Bread:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
Whole Wheat Marmite Bread:
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients.
Marmite and Onion Bread:
Sauté finely chopped onions until caramelized and fold them into the dough after the first rise for a sweet and savory combination.
Marmite Breadsticks:
Roll the dough into thin strips after the first rise, brush with Marmite butter, and bake for a crunchy snack or appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
With Breakfast:
Serve slices of Marmite bread toasted with butter alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and tomatoes for a hearty breakfast.
As a Sandwich Base:
Use the bread to make sandwiches with fillings like cheddar cheese, ham, and pickles. The savory notes of Marmite pair well with a variety of fillings.
Soup Accompaniment:
Serve Marmite bread with a bowl of hot soup, such as tomato, vegetable, or lentil soup. The robust flavor of the bread complements the soup perfectly.
Snack or Appetizer:
Cut the bread into small pieces and serve with a cheese board or with dips like hummus, guacamole, or a creamy spinach dip.
Tea Time Treat:
Enjoy Marmite bread as a savory treat with your afternoon tea. Serve with a selection of cheeses, chutneys, and pickles.
Nutritional Benefits:
Marmite bread not only offers a unique flavor but also provides various nutritional benefits:
B Vitamins: Marmite is rich in B vitamins, including B12, which are essential for energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Iron: Marmite contains iron, which is important for red blood cell production and preventing anemia.
Protein: Incorporating cheese or whole wheat flour can boost the protein content of the bread, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Fiber: Using whole wheat flour adds fiber to the bread, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Cultural Significance:
Marmite, a yeast extract spread, has a long history and a strong cultural presence, particularly in the UK and other Commonwealth countries. Known for its polarizing taste, Marmite has the slogan “Love it or hate it,” reflecting the strong opinions people have about its flavor.
It is often used as a spread on toast or in various recipes to add a rich umami flavor. Incorporating Marmite into bread is a creative way to enjoy its distinctive taste in a new and exciting form.
Conclusion
Marmite bread is a delicious and inventive way to enjoy the savory flavor of Marmite in a homemade bread. This recipe provides a comprehensive guide to making Marmite bread from scratch, including detailed instructions for preparing the dough, shaping, and baking the bread.
With various tips, variations, and serving suggestions, you can customize the bread to suit your taste and enjoy it in multiple ways.
Whether served as a breakfast toast, a sandwich base, or a savory snack, Marmite bread is sure to delight fans of this iconic spread. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring this unique and flavorful bread. Happy baking!