why make this recipe

Pandesal is a beloved Filipino bread that is soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast or snacks. It is simple to make and brings the delightful smell of freshly baked bread into your home. Making pandesal is a wonderful way to introduce your family and friends to Filipino cuisine, and it pairs well with coffee, tea, or even savory dishes.

how to make Pandesal

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 egg (optional for enrichment)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add the warm water and melted butter, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
5. Punch down the dough, shape it into small balls, and roll them in breadcrumbs if desired.
6. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with coffee or tea.

how to serve Pandesal

Pandesal is best served warm. You can enjoy it plain, or spread butter, jam, or cheese on top. It also makes a great base for sandwiches or can be served alongside soups and stews.

how to store Pandesal

To store leftover pandesal, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the pandesal by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months.

tips to make Pandesal

• Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
• Kneading the dough well helps create a soft texture, so don’t skip this step.
• If you want a richer flavor, add the egg to the dough.
• Rolling the shaped dough in breadcrumbs gives it a nice texture and appearance.

variation

You can add various fillings to pandesal, such as cheese, sweetened coconut, or even chocolate spread for a twist on the classic recipe.

FAQs

What is pandesal?
Pandesal is a traditional Filipino bread that is soft and slightly sweet, typically enjoyed for breakfast or snacks.

Can I make pandesal without yeast?
No, yeast is essential for making pandesal, as it helps the bread rise and achieve its soft texture.

How can I make pandesal healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to add more fiber, or reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Additionally, you can add seeds or nuts for extra nutrition.