Breads
Pitka
Ingredients
- - 500 g (4 cups) plain flour
- - 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) warm water
- - 7 g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- - 1 tsp sugar
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 2 tbsp sunflower oil
Method
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let stand 10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl, then work in the yeast mixture and oil to form a soft dough.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
- Shape into a round loaf, place on a baking tray, and let rise a further 20-30 minutes.
- Score a cross or decorative pattern on top.
- Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 30-35 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Introduction: Pitka is a simple round leavened bread with a domed, cracked top, baked for everyday meals and, in a special form, for celebrations such as name days and housewarming visits, when it is offered to guests with salt and honey.
Cultural Background: Pitka is a simple round leavened bread with a domed, cracked top, baked for everyday meals and, in a special form, for celebrations such as name days and housewarming visits, when it is offered to guests with salt and honey.
Tips: Scoring the top allows even expansion and gives pitka its characteristic look. A hot oven and a light steam (spraying water at the start of baking) improves the crust.
Variations: Celebratory versions are decorated with braided dough patterns. Some households add a swirl of oil and paprika on top for a savory variation. Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Store in a paper or cloth bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Refresh in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-8 minutes if it has gone slightly stale.
Nutrition: Approx. 180 kcal, 5g protein, 3g fat, 33g carbs per slice (based on 10 slices).
FAQs:
Q: Why is pitka offered with salt and honey?
A: It’s a traditional greeting gesture for guests, symbolizing hospitality and good fortune.
Q: Can I make individual pitki instead of one large loaf?
A: Yes, divide the dough into smaller rounds and reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.