- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shape the Bread
- Once risen, divide the dough into equal portions and shape into small baguettes or rolls.
- Let them rest for another 15 minutes while you prepare the boiling water.
Step 3: Boil the Bread
- In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add baking soda (this gives the bread a chewy texture and golden color).
- Carefully drop each dough piece into the boiling water and cook for 30 seconds per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain excess water.
Step 4: Cook Without an Oven
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Option 1: Stovetop Cooking
- Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over low heat.
- Place the boiled bread pieces in the pan, cover, and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Option 2: Air Fryer or Toaster Oven
- Brush with egg yolk and milk for a shiny crust.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or cheese for a delicious treat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the bread for up to 1 month—simply reheat on a pan before serving.
Variants
- Garlic Herb Bread – Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and chopped parsley to the dough.
- Cheesy Bread Rolls – Stuff each dough piece with cheese before boiling.
- Sweet Honey Bread – Replace sugar with honey for a slightly sweet version.
- Whole Wheat Version – Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a fiber-rich option.
- Sesame Seed Crust – Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds before cooking for extra crunch.
FAQ
1. Why boil the dough before cooking?
Boiling pre-gelatinizes the starches, giving the bread a chewy texture and golden crust, similar to bagels.
2. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum for better texture.
3. How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?
Make sure the yeast is active, knead the dough well, and allow proper rising time.
4. Can I bake this bread instead of pan-cooking it?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes for a traditional oven version.
5. What if I don’t have yeast?
Use ½ teaspoon baking powder and ½ teaspoon baking soda instead, but the texture will be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
This no-oven bread is a game-changer! Whether you lack an oven or simply want to try a fun, unique bread-making technique, this recipe delivers soft, flavorful, and bakery-quality bread with minimal effort.
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