This recipe elevates the humble sweet potato bread to new heights with the umami depth of miso paste and the satisfying crunch of seeds. It's a delicious and surprisingly easy recipe that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack. The subtle sweetness of the sweet potato pairs beautifully with the savory miso, creating a balanced and unforgettable flavor profile. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this unique and flavorful loaf!
What makes this seeded miso sweet potato bread special?
This recipe stands out from traditional sweet potato bread recipes by incorporating miso paste, a fermented soybean paste that adds a complex, savory depth. The addition of seeds provides a delightful textural contrast and adds nutritional value. This isn't your grandma's sweet potato bread; it's a sophisticated upgrade with a modern twist.
Ingredients:
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For the Sweet Potato Puree:
- 1 large sweet potato (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
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For the Bread:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or substitute with all-purpose)
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup flax seeds
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sweet Potato Puree: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil and salt. Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Let cool slightly, then mash thoroughly.
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Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and will properly leaven the bread.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the miso paste, salt, egg, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Stir in the mashed sweet potato puree.
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Add Seeds: Fold in the pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and flax seeds.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different types of seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seeds like chia seeds, sesame seeds, or even chopped nuts.
Can I substitute the miso paste?
While miso paste adds a unique flavor, you can omit it or substitute it with an equal amount of soy sauce or tamari for a less intense savory flavor. However, the umami depth will be slightly different.
How do I store leftover bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I make this bread without the sweet potato?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to make a savory miso seed bread by omitting the sweet potato and adjusting the liquid content as needed. You could even add herbs and cheese for extra flavor.
What kind of miso paste should I use?
White miso paste is recommended for this recipe as it has a milder flavor that complements the sweetness of the sweet potato. However, you can experiment with other varieties like yellow or red miso for a more robust flavor.
This seeded miso sweet potato bread is a testament to the delicious possibilities that emerge when we combine familiar flavors in unexpected ways. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, savory, and nutty notes in every slice!
