Bread of the Dead

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist to add to your meal rotation, you’ll love this Bread of the Dead recipe! This delightful flatbread features squid ink for a striking visual appeal and is topped with savory mushroom skulls that are not only delicious but also perfect for Halloween gatherings or cozy family dinners. It’s a recipe that brings smiles and joy, making it a favorite in our household.

Whether you’re preparing for a festive occasion or just want to treat your loved ones on a busy weeknight, this dish fits right in. The combination of fresh herbs, rich pesto, and earthy mushrooms creates an experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the playful skull shapes made from mushrooms, making dinner time more exciting.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the flatbread dough in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of garlic, herbs, and pesto ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
• Visually impressive: The dark hue of the squid ink paired with vibrant toppings makes this dish a showstopper at any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Bread of the Dead recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Flatbread

• 2 cups bread flour
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (plus more to grease the bowl)
• 1/2 tsp squid ink
• 1 cup warm water (110 degrees)

For the Toppings

• 4 oz. button mushrooms (see mushroom skull preparation below)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup shallots, thinly sliced (substitute with red onion)
• 4-5 cloves garlic (sliced thin)
• 2 Tbsp cooking apple juice
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup jarred pesto sauce
• 1 cup Green Pesto Gouda cheese
• Mixed fresh herbs

For the Balsamic Reduction

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand! Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Add cooked chicken or roasted vegetables instead of mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
• Change up the cheese: Use mozzarella or goat cheese for a creamier texture.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick!
• Try different herbs: Experiment with basil, parsley, or even mint for unique flavor combinations.

How to Make Bread of the Dead

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing your dry ingredients—bread flour, garlic powder, salt, and active dry yeast—in a large mixing bowl. Adding these first helps ensure even distribution before introducing any liquids. Slowly pour in warm water while stirring until it forms a shaggy dough. This step is vital as it activates the yeast, giving your bread its wonderful rise!

Step 2: Knead and Rise

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This process develops gluten, which gives structure to your flatbread. Once kneaded, place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1 hour. Patience here pays off!

Step 3: Prepare Mushroom Skulls

While your dough rises, it’s time to prepare those adorable mushroom skulls! Sauté sliced mushrooms with butter over medium heat until they soften. Add shallots and garlic; cook until fragrant. This step caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their flavors. Stir in cooking apple juice and thyme before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Shape & Bake Your Flatbread

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Once risen, punch down your dough and divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a flat circle on parchment paper. Spread pesto sauce generously over each round followed by sautéed mushrooms and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

While your flatbreads are baking, prepare a quick balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened—this adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory toppings beautifully! Drizzle over your baked flatbreads right before serving. Enjoy sharing this delightful Bread of the Dead with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Bread of the Dead

Making Bread of the Dead can be a delightful experience, and a few pro tips will help you achieve that perfect texture and flavor!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, mushrooms, and garlic can significantly enhance the flavor of your flatbread. Fresh ingredients ensure that every bite is bursting with vibrant taste.
• Let the dough rise properly: Allowing your dough to rise until it doubles in size is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture. This step helps develop gluten, making your flatbread soft and chewy.
• Keep the water warm: Using warm water (around 110 degrees) activates the yeast effectively. This ensures a more consistent rise and fluffy bread that’s perfect for holding toppings.
• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe features mushrooms and pesto gouda, don’t hesitate to get creative! Add seasonal vegetables or try different cheeses to suit your palate.
• Serve warm: Bread of the Dead tastes best when served fresh out of the oven. Warm flatbreads enhance flavors and aromas, making it an inviting dish for your guests.

How to Serve Bread of the Dead

Presenting your Bread of the Dead can be just as fun as making it! The vibrant colors and unique shapes make it a visual treat that adds a festive atmosphere to any table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or cilantro adds freshness and color, elevating both the presentation and taste.
• Drizzle of balsamic reduction: A light drizzle over the top provides a sweet-tangy contrast that complements the richness of the cheese.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted until caramelized makes a colorful side dish that’s packed with flavor.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with flatbreads while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred is not only fun to eat but also provides a smoky sweetness that balances well with savory flatbreads.
• Spicy Hummus Dip: Serve alongside your flatbread for dipping; its creamy texture and flavor will make for an exciting contrast with each bite.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, your Bread of the Dead will surely be a hit at any gathering or celebration! Enjoy making this delicious dish that brings friends and family together in joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bread of the Dead recipe is not only fun to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the flatbreads in advance and store them for easy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the flatbread pizzas to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the flatbreads cool completely.
• Wrap each flatbread individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on high for about 1 minute, but this might make the bread a bit softer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Bread of the Dead.

What is Bread of the Dead?

Bread of the Dead is a unique flatbread traditionally associated with celebrations. This version combines squid ink with delicious toppings like mushrooms and herbs, making it a delightful dish.

Can I customize my Bread of the Dead toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or cheeses to your Bread of the Dead. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—get creative!

How should I store my Bread of the Dead leftovers?

To keep your Bread of the Dead fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

What makes this Bread of the Dead recipe special?

This recipe stands out because it’s not only visually captivating with its skull shapes but also packed with flavors from garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for Halloween festivities!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this playful and delicious Bread of the Dead! It’s not just about celebrating traditions; it’s about creating memorable meals that bring joy to your table. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking for something fun and unique, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!