Cipovka Bread

As I close my eyes, if only for a fleeting moment, I find myself enveloped in a tapestry of memories, each one woven with the gentle melodies of old radio tunes and the intoxicating scent of fresh basil, rosemary, and bread. It's as though time stands still, and I am transported back to the comforting embrace of my grandmother's kitchen – a place where sleepiness mingled with hunger, and every corner was imbued with the warmth of home.

In those early hours of the morning, there was nothing quite like the anticipation of sinking my teeth into a slice of freshly baked bread, whether it was sourced from the local bakery or lovingly crafted in the confines of my grandmother's wood-burning stove. It was in those moments, amidst the heady aroma of yeast and warmth, that my passion for food was kindled – a passion rooted in the time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations.

As I trace the lines of these old recipes, etched into yellowed notebooks and preserved with care, I am reminded of the legacy that I carry forward. Each recipe is a piece of my family's history, a link to the past that serves as a guiding light for the future. And it is with great joy and reverence that I share these recipes with you, dear reader, in the pages of Granny J's Diary.

But before we delve into the depths of these culinary treasures, allow me to introduce you to one of my most cherished recipes – the humble yet irresistible Cipovka bread. This recipe, passed down through generations, is a testament to the simple pleasures of life and the power of tradition. So gather your ingredients, dust off your apron, and let's embark on a journey:

Cipovka, a cherished bread in Serbian cuisine, is renowned for its unique appearance and delightful taste. Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of fat, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Serbian baking. As the dough rises and takes shape, it forms a charming "smile" that adds to its charm. After a brief rest, it's baked to golden perfection, resulting in a crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Brushed with hot water and finished with a light coating of fat, each bite of Cipovka offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Enjoy this beloved bread as a centerpiece at your table, bringing warmth and tradition to any meal.

.

Ingredients:

- 500 g of flour

- 250 ml of lukewarm water

- 20 g of fresh yeast

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 1 tablespoon of fat

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water, then add salt and a spoonful of flour. Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes until bubbles form.

2. Gradually add fat and flour to the yeast mixture, kneading the dough continuously until well combined.

3. Once the dough is mixed and elastic, cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

4. After the resting period, knead the dough again thoroughly and shape it into a ball. Place it in a greased pan and allow it to rest for about an hour, until it rises.

5. Preheat the oven to its maximum temperature.

6. Cut a slit in the top of the dough, slightly off-center, resembling a smile.

7. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and brush the surface of the bread with hot water for a shiny finish.

9. Let the bread cool, then coat the crust with a small amount of fat to enhance its crunchiness.

10. Serve and enjoy this traditional Serbian bread with your favorite dishes or as a delicious snack on its own.