Guyanese Plait Bread
Aug 8, 2023
"There is no smell like freshly baked bread! I have vivid memories of growing up in Richmond Hill, waiting for the early morning train on Liberty Avenue, which was lined with Guyanese bakeries, all with the aroma of baked bread wafting through the streets. There’s a mellow, soft sweetness to warm bread, and you can scarf down an entire loaf almost before you realize. A plain braided loaf, with a thin plait showing on the top, is what makes Guyanese bread distinctive. Guyanese are simple people, and descriptors enhance a dish’s name." -- Salmah
This recipe was shared by Salmah in Episode 8 of Season 2 of The Great American Recipe.
This recipe was shared by Salmah in Episode 8 of Season 2 of The Great American Recipe.
- Servings
- 1 large loaf
- Course
- Side Dish
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups warm water (100–105°F)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 envelopes (4½ teaspoons) fast-acting instant yeast
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for brushing
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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In the bowl of an electric mixer, stir together the water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it rest for 10 minutes. The yeast should become foamy and bubbly.
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Add the flour, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture and, using the dough hook attachment, begin combining to form the dough. Continue to knead for 8–10 minutes to create a sticky dough. (Alternatively, you can knead the dough by hand using a wooden spoon.)
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Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean towel. Leave it to proof for 45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
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Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently roll the dough into a log and separate it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope at least 12 inches long; make the ropes equal in length. Take an end of each of the ropes and pinch them together. Braid the three ropes by taking the alternating outside pieces and placing it in between the other two pieces. Finish by pressing together the ends and tucking both ends under to create clean ends to the loaf.
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Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet. Place the braided bread on the prepared sheet and allow it to rise for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Bake the loaf for 30 minutes, or until it is a deep golden brown. Remove the loaf from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter.
