Skillet Bread (Fried Dough)

Skillet Bread (Fried Dough) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for frying)
• Optional: 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing), garlic powder, dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano), grated cheese (Parmesan, cheddar), coarse salt

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 4-6 equal portions, depending on the size you want for your skillet bread.
   • Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Prepare for Frying:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil.
   • If you want to add extra flavor, you can mix some garlic powder and dried herbs into the melted butter and brush it onto the dough discs before frying.
6. Cook the Bread:
   • Place a dough disc into the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The bread should puff up slightly and develop a crispy crust.
   • Repeat with the remaining dough discs, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
7. Serve:
   • Brush the cooked skillet bread with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt or your favorite toppings like grated cheese.
   • Serve warm with dips, spreads, or as a side to your main dish.
8. Variations:
   • Cheesy Skillet Bread: Add a handful of grated cheese to the dough before shaping into discs.
   • Herb Skillet Bread: Mix dried herbs into the dough for a fragrant, flavorful bread.
   • Garlic Skillet Bread: Brush the cooked bread with garlic butter for a delicious garlic flavor.

Enjoy your extended version of homemade Skillet Bread (Fried Dough)!