Hungarian Braided Bread Recipe
Sometimes I’ll disagree with the opinion of a loved one and try to find a way to reconcile our difference of opinion. Reconciliation might not always be possible, but I try because I love the other person. Yet, what would happen if the other person was an enemy who murdered my mother? Would I still try to reconcile with that person?
Jesus instructed us to love our enemies, and Saint Elizabeth of Hungary shows us exactly how to do that. Hungarian Braided Bread is a great way to celebrate the feast day of Saint Elizabeth, and I’ll explain why.
Saint Elizabeth’s mother was murdered because of a conflict between Hungarian and German noblemen. Rather than seek revenge, Saint Elizabeth sought peace through prayer and forgiveness. She did not want a division between Hungarian and German factions. She prayed for unity! The braid in this bread represents two opposing sides coming together as one.
Saint Elizabeth would also sneak out of her castle to deliver bread to the poor. She cared for those who struggled to find food for themselves and their family. To Saint Elizabeth, there was no divide between the rich and the poor. She would break bread with anyone! Rich, poor, friend, or enemy, Saint Elizabeth ensured all were fed with love and friendship.
Hungarian Braided Bread is a great way to celebrate the feast of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. Download the recipe and break this bread with your family and friends. I’d like to know what you think of this Hungarian Braided Bread recipe and invite you to leave a comment below.
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, pray for us!
Ingredients:
- 1 package Active Dry Yeast
- 1 ¾ cups Warm Milk (110°F)
- 1 Egg
- 2 Egg Yolks
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
- 2 Teaspoons Salt
- 5 Cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Egg, beaten (for Egg Wash)
- 1 Tablespoon Poppy Seed, optional
Preparation Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast with the warm milk. Let rest until bubbly, about 5 minutes.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, with a dough hook attachment, mix the egg, yolks, sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture.
- Continue to mix on low speed to incorporate the yeast. Add 3 cups of flour. Mix until well combined.
- Add the remaining flour ½ cup at a time, mixing after each addition. When the dough has fully incorporated, turn the mixer to medium and allow to knead approximately 5-8 minutes.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and cut into 2 equal parts. Form two long loaves. Let rest for 20 minutes.
- After resting, divide each loaf in half and roll into 4 long ropes for braiding.
- Connect the top of the 4 ends together. Braid. End by bringing the bottom ends together and turning them underneath.
- Place on a parchment lined cookie sheet, and cover with a towel until doubled in size, about 40 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Brush the risen loaf with the beaten egg and sprinkle with poppy seed, if desired.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F, and continue to bake an additional 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
How To Make Hungarian Braided Bread
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