Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread

An Irresistible Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re a fan of savory delights, you’re in for a treat with this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread. It’s not only simple to make but also versatile enough to serve as a party appetizer, a quick lunch, or even a delightful snack. Imagine the rich flavors of bacon and cheese mingling with the tanginess of olives—all baked to perfection in a loaf. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread is a savory dream come true. The combination of bacon and cheese creates a rich, comforting flavor, while the olives add a unique twist with their salty, tangy taste. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a satisfying snack.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Loaf pan (9 by 5 inches)
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 5 fl oz (15cl) white wine
• 3 1/3 fl oz (10cl) olive oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 5g)
• 5 ounces (150g) grated Swiss cheese or cheddar
• 1 large onion
• 3 1/2 ounces (100g) bacon
• 7 ounces (200g) cooked city ham
• 3 1/2 ounces (100g) black olives
• 3 1/2 ounces (100g) green olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the wine, olive oil, eggs, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Sift the mixture and then stir it into the wet ingredients.
4. Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a skillet with a little olive oil until translucent.
5. Add the bacon to the onions and cook for a few more minutes. Drain the mixture to prevent a soggy dough.
6. Slice the olives and chop the parsley. Cut the ham into small pieces.
7. Add the onions, bacon, olives, ham, parsley, and grated cheese to the batter, stirring until well combined.
8. Pour the mixture into a buttered 9 by 5-inch loaf pan.
9. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all excess oil from the bacon and onion mixture is drained to avoid a greasy bread.
• For a richer flavor, use a mix of Swiss cheese and cheddar.
• Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Swap the olives for sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
• This recipe can easily be made into muffins for individual servings.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values can vary, this bread is high in protein and calcium due to the cheese and meats, making it a hearty choice for a snack or meal accompaniment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You might need to adjust the liquid quantity slightly.

How should I store the bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it in aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is a delightful blend of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe worth sharing. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below!