Challah bread is made specially for Jewish holidays and Shabbat. Traditionally, a round Challah is served for Rosh Hashana, Jewish New Year, because it represents the circularity of time, and the circularity and completeness of the year. Sometimes it is also shaped into a crown.
Besides being pretty, this bread tastes really good and it is very easy to make! It is quite similar to a Brioche, fluffy and slightly sweet.
The braiding looks hard to make, but it is in fact very easy! Watch the video explaining every step and you will see that anyone can do it.
If you try out this Challah bread, please do not forget to rate it and leave a comment! I love reading and replying to all your comments! You can also tag your pics to @elinasaiach on Instagram!
Challah
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tsp dried yeast
- 4 – 4 1/2 cup bread flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cdtas de sal
- 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water, yeast and a pinch of sugar. Mix until dissolved. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, salt and mix. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, yolk, and oil. Mix until creamy.
- Add the yeast mixture and mix.
- Turn onto a floured surface, knead for 10 minutes and shape into a ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, careful not to add too much. A sticky dough is better than a dry one. It should be smooth and soft.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 2–2½ hours until double in size.
- Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces, and then each one into 6. Roll all the pieces into ropes. I recommend that you watch the video to see the braiding technique step by step.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. Before baking, brush the loaf with an egg white thinned with 1 tbsp water. Make sure to brush the folds and sides.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
