For me, cooking is therapeutic. I remember sitting in my favorite spot in the kitchen, watching my mom’s every movement as she prepared her special dishes for us.
Food holds memories. It brings people together. And most importantly, there are no limits to creativity in cooking, just like in life. Sometimes, the most unexpected ingredients come together perfectly, much like the moments and experiences that shape us. I hope this dish brings you warmth on a rainy evening!
Ingredients:
Bread
Flour 300 g
Warm water 175 ml
Salt 1 tsp
Sugar 1 tsp
Yeast 7 g
How to Make Bread
The first step is to activate your yeast. In a cup of warm water, dissolve some sugar and add the yeast. The sugar acts as food for the yeast and within a few minutes (depending on room temperature), you will notice bubbles and a cloudy appearance, this means your yeast is active.
In a separate bowl, combine all purpose flour with salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix well until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 3-5 minutes, then let it rest. Keep in mind that yeast thrives around 30°C, so the dough may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to double in size, depending on your room temperature.
After the dough has risen, knead it again for 2-3 minutes and let it rest for a second time, about 15-20 minutes. This additional resting period ensures a soft and airy texture.
Now, it is time to bake!
Preheat your oven to 180°C for at least 5 minutes. Lightly grease your baking tray or use baking paper, then shape the dough into a round bun and place it on the tray. Bake at 180°C for 30-40 minutes but remember, baking times can vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the crust. When it turns golden brown, your bread is ready.
Happy baking, and do not burn your bread, folks!
Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin 500 g
Water 4 cups
Garlic 1 bulb (7-8 cloves)
Onion 1 big bulb
Cheese 2-3 wedges
Peper to taste
Salt to taste
Butter/ Coconut oil 2 tbs
Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme and Celery)
Pumpkin Soup (Serves 3)
This is one of my favorite soups for dinner, comforting, flavorful and incredibly easy to make!
Start by heating the butter in a pot. Add chopped garlic, onion, pepper and celery, then stir-fry until their heavenly aroma fills your kitchen and they turn slightly golden. Next, toss in the peeled and cubed pumpkin. Let it sauté for 3–4 minutes, seasoning with salt to enhance the flavors.
Now, pour in water to cover the pumpkin and let it simmer until the pieces are tender. Once soft, carefully blend the mixture until smooth (watch out for the heat!).
For an extra depth of flavor, stir in cheese, rosemary and thyme at the end. Let everything warm through and just like thatyour delicious, creamy pumpkin soup is ready.
And… why use a separate bowl when you can serve your soup in a perfectly edible, delicious bread bowl? Once your bread has cooled, cut a circular lid on the crust and gently scoop out the soft inside. Now, pour in your warm, velvety soup.
Enjoy every bite, both the soup and the bowl!
Bon appétit!
Spoonful of happiness!
