Bread of the Dead

Bread of the Dead is a unique and flavorful flatbread pizza that brings fun to any gathering. Perfect for Halloween or festive occasions, this dish features squid ink flatbread topped with mushroom skulls, shallots, and fresh herbs. Its striking appearance and delightful taste make it an ideal centerpiece for your next carnival food spread or themed dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The black squid ink flatbread and mushroom skulls create an eye-catching presentation that will impress your guests.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich flavors of garlic, shallots, and pesto meld beautifully, offering a delicious experience in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main dish or cut into smaller pieces for a fun appetizer at parties.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: Each flatbread pizza serves four, making it great for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bread of the Dead successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Preparing these tools beforehand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring a perfect flatbread texture.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your flatbreads.

Ingredients

For the Flatbread 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 Glaze

• 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 2 cups of bread flour, 2 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of active dry yeast.
2. Create a well in the center and add 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1/2 tsp squid ink.
3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of warm water while stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Grease the bowl with olive oil and let it rise for about an hour.

Step 2: Prepare Mushroom Skulls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp butter.
3. Add sliced shallots (or red onion) and cook until soft.
4. Stir in sliced garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until tender; season with salt, pepper, apple juice, and thyme.

Step 3: Shape Flatbreads

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into four equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a round shape using a rolling pin on a floured surface.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Spread pesto sauce evenly over each flatbread round.
2. Top with mushroom mixture followed by shredded Green Pesto Gouda cheese.
3. Place assembled flatbreads on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve

1. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened; stir in honey.
2. Drizzle glaze over baked flatbreads before serving hot with mixed fresh herbs on top.

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, especially during festive occasions. This flatbread is versatile and pairs well with various toppings and sides to create a memorable meal.

Creative Topping Ideas

• Mushroom Skulls: Top your flatbread with sautéed button mushrooms shaped into skulls for a spooky touch.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle mixed fresh herbs on top for an aromatic finish that enhances flavors.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic vinegar mixed with honey over the flatbread for a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Pesto Swirl: Add dollops of jarred pesto sauce to create a colorful and flavorful presentation.

Accompaniments

• Salad Greens: Serve with a light salad of mixed greens dressed in olive oil and lemon for freshness.
• Spicy Dips: Pair with spicy hummus or roasted red pepper dip for an extra kick.

How to Perfect Bread of the Dead

Perfecting your Bread of the Dead can elevate your dish from good to great. These simple tips will help you achieve the best results.

• Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is warm (about 110 degrees) to activate the yeast properly, leading to better rise and texture.
• Knead Well: Knead the dough thoroughly until smooth; this develops gluten, giving bread its structure.
• Let It Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size; this improves flavor and texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add garlic powder or herbs directly into the dough for enhanced taste.

Best Side Dishes for Bread of the Dead

Pairing side dishes with Bread of the Dead can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its unique flavors.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted until tender enhance the meal’s appeal.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast.
3. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds nutrition and color.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side that pairs well.
5. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that complements the flatbread beautifully.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunchiness and balances out rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bread of the Dead, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact your final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring yeast activation: Always ensure your yeast is activated properly. Mix it with warm water and sugar before adding it to the dough to ensure it rises correctly.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading is important, but overworking can lead to tough bread. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture without excessive kneading.
• Skipping ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for this recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons to avoid imbalances that could affect the texture or flavor.
• Neglecting resting time: Allow your dough to rest and rise properly. This step is vital for achieving that light and airy texture in your flatbreads.
• Using cold ingredients: Ingredients like water and oil should be at room temperature or slightly warm. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activity and affect the bread’s rise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bread of the Dead in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep flatbreads separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Bread of the Dead

• Wrap each flatbread tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bread of the Dead

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place flatbreads on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Wrap the flatbread in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place each flatbread in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bread of the Dead?

Bread of the Dead is a traditional recipe often enjoyed during celebrations. It features unique flavors and shapes, making it perfect for festive occasions.

Can I customize my Bread of the Dead?

Absolutely! You can add various toppings such as vegetables, different cheeses, or herbs according to your preference for added flavor.

How do I make my Bread of the Dead more flavorful?

Experiment with spices or herbs like rosemary or oregano in your dough. Additionally, using flavored oils or broths can elevate its taste.

How long does it take to prepare Bread of the Dead?

From start to finish, including resting times, you can expect about 2 hours for preparation and baking.

Final Thoughts

Bread of the Dead is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect as a main dish or appetizer. Feel free to customize toppings based on what you enjoy most! This recipe brings creativity into your kitchen while celebrating culinary traditions.