Bread of the Dead

Bread of the Dead is a unique and festive flatbread pizza that brings a playful twist to your culinary repertoire. This dish, inspired by the traditional celebration of life, is perfect for Halloween gatherings, themed parties, or simply to enjoy with friends and family. With its striking squid ink color and delightful mushroom skull toppings, this recipe stands out not only in flavor but also in presentation. It’s a fun choice that suits various occasions while offering a delicious meatless meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The squid ink gives the flatbread a dramatic look, making it ideal for festive occasions.
• Flavor-Packed: With garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: With four servings, it’s great for gatherings or casual dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delightful Bread of the Dead, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining dough ingredients effectively.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps in rolling out the dough evenly to achieve the right thickness.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy transfer of your flatbreads.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing mushrooms and shallots to enhance their flavors before topping 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
• 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 mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, garlic powder, salt, and active dry yeast.
2. Add olive oil and squid ink into warm water; mix well. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Mushroom Skulls

1. While the dough rises, clean and slice mushrooms into skull shapes using a small knife or cookie cutter.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter; add sliced shallots and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic slices and mushroom skulls; sauté until mushrooms are tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in apple juice and thyme; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Shape Flatbreads

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into four equal parts.
3. Roll each part out on a floured surface into circular shapes approximately ¼ inch thick.

Step 4: Assemble Flatbreads

1. Spread pesto sauce evenly over each flatbread base.
2. Top with sautéed mushroom skulls and sprinkle with Green Pesto Gouda cheese.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Drizzle & Serve

1. While baking, prepare balsamic drizzle by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey until slightly thickened (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove flatbreads from oven; drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.
3. Garnish with mixed fresh herbs for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Bread of the Dead at your next gathering!

How to Serve Bread of the Dead

Serving Bread of the Dead can be a delightful experience that enhances any gathering. This flatbread is not only visually striking with its unique design but also versatile in flavor and pairing. Here are some creative ways to present this dish.

With Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Beet Salad: Pair the earthy flavors of roasted beets with goat cheese and walnuts for a rich side.

As an Appetizer

• Pesto Dipping Sauce: Serve slices of flatbread warm with a side of pesto for dipping, enhancing the herbaceous notes.
• Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A creamy spread topped with fresh herbs complements the bread’s texture nicely.

For Casual Gatherings

• Flatbread Pizzas: Top your flatbreads with seasonal vegetables, cheese, and herbs for individual mini pizzas.
• Charcuterie Board: Include slices of Bread of the Dead on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and spreads.

Accompanied by Soups

• Tomato Basil Soup: The rich flavors of tomato soup pair well with the savory notes of the flatbread.
• Mushroom Soup: A creamy mushroom soup will resonate beautifully with the mushroom skulls on the bread.

How to Perfect Bread of the Dead

Creating perfect Bread of the Dead is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Bold Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is bubbly before mixing. This indicates it’s active and will help your bread rise perfectly.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil; they enhance flavor significantly.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your flatbreads while baking. They should be golden brown but not overcooked.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix different toppings according to your taste preferences or what’s in season.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let your bread cool before slicing. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Bread of the Dead

Pairing side dishes with Bread of the Dead can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here’s a curated list of delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in garlic and olive oil, then roast until tender for an earthy side dish.
2. Crispy Potato Wedges: Season potato wedges with herbs and spices before baking them until crispy—perfect for dipping!
3. Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters bring a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft flatbread.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with diced veggies offers a nutritious complement to your meal.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Simply grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness to your plate.
6. Spicy Chickpea Salad: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide a crunchy element that pairs well with the bread’s softness.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables can serve as hearty sides packed with flavor.
8. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes drizzled in balsamic glaze make for a vibrant addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoiding yeast: Not activating the yeast properly can lead to flat flatbreads. Make sure to dissolve it in warm water before mixing.
• Incorrect flour measurements: Using too much or too little flour affects dough consistency. Always measure accurately for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring resting time: Skipping the resting period prevents proper rising. Allow your dough to rest for at least an hour.
• Not preheating your oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing the flatbreads inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For best texture, wrap flatbreads in parchment paper before placing them in a container.

Freezing Bread of the Dead

• Wrap individual flatbreads tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bread of the Dead

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed.
• Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes each side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bread of the Dead?
Bread of the Dead is a festive flatbread that combines flavors like garlic, mushrooms, and herbs, perfect for celebrations.

Can I customize my Bread of the Dead?
Absolutely! You can add different toppings or herbs based on your preferences. Experiment with various cheeses or vegetables!

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Bread of the Dead recipe is meat-free, making it perfect for vegetarians looking for flavorful options.

How do I store leftovers of Bread of the Dead?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.

What are some good dipping sauces?
Consider pairing with marinara sauce, pesto, or even a creamy herb dip to enhance your Bread of the Dead experience.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Bread of the Dead blends rich flavors and unique textures, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or casual meals. It’s versatile enough to allow customization with various toppings and ingredients, ensuring everyone enjoys a slice of this delightful treat! Try it today and explore your creativity in the kitchen!