Prepare to be amazed by the irresistible charm of Korean Salt Bread, a culinary sensation taking the world by storm! This seemingly simple bread boasts a captivating paradox: a crisp, shatteringly delicate exterior giving way to a soft, pillowy interior bursting with buttery flavor. Forget everything you think you know about bread – this isn't your grandmother's loaf. The unique combination of salty, savory, and subtly sweet notes creates a truly addictive experience, perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon snack to a sophisticated dinner party. Its addictive crunch and fluffy texture are incredibly rewarding.
The secret lies in a precise technique and a few key ingredients, all of which we'll explore in detail. From understanding the importance of the dough's hydration to achieving the perfect golden-brown crust, this recipe will guide you through every step of the process. Ready to bake your own batch of this viral sensation? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- Enriched dough
- Salted butter (European style, like Plugra)
- Flaky salt
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Shape the Dough
- Prepare an enriched dough. Let the dough rise.
- Once the dough has risen, divide it equally and roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Roll the balls into teardrop shapes, approximately 6 inches long. Let them rest.
- Roll the teardrop shapes into long triangles (3 inches at the base and 18 inches long). Gently pull the tip as you roll.
- Slice a slit in the base of each triangle.
Step 2. Encase and Proof the Butter
- Cut a large amount of chilled salted butter into batons.
- Wrap a half-frozen butter log into the dough. Don't seal it completely to allow some butter to leak out during baking.
- Let the dough proof for a final time.
Step 3. Bake and Finish
- Brush the tops with water and sprinkle with flaky salt.
- Bake the bread.
- Brush the baked rolls with butter from the sheet pan.
Read more: Bibimbap Recipe: Delicious Korean Mixed Rice & Vegetables
Tips
- Use high-butterfat European-style butter for a richer flavor and crispier base.
- Don't completely seal the butter in the dough; letting some leak out creates a crispy bottom.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use regular salt instead of fleur de sel?
While fleur de sel provides a unique, delicate flavor, you can substitute it with regular table salt. Just be mindful to reduce the amount slightly, as fleur de sel is less salty by weight.
2. My bread isn't as crispy as it should be. What went wrong?
This usually means your oven temperature wasn't high enough, or the bread didn't bake long enough. Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and bake according to the recipe's timing. You can also try adding a few ice cubes to the oven during the last few minutes of baking to create steam for extra crispiness.
Congratulations! You've now mastered the art of making viral Korean salt bread. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and fluffy interior of your homemade creation, perfect for sharing with friends and family. So go ahead, impress everyone with this delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make bread!