Authentic Homemade Lepinja Bread Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
300 ml warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and starts to foam.
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough starts to form.
Add the olive oil to the dough and mix well. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 220 degrees Celsius. If you have a baking stone, put it in the oven to heat up.
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a tennis ball. Flatten each ball with your hand and let them rest for 15 minutes.
Place the dough circles on a baking sheet or directly onto the hot baking stone. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Once baked, cover the Lepinja with a cloth to keep them soft until serving.

Tools for making

Large bowl - for mixing the ingredients and allowing the dough to rise
Baking sheet - to place the Lepinja on for baking
Baking stone - if available, to bake the Lepinja for a crispier crust
Cloth - to cover the dough while it rises and to keep the Lepinja soft after baking
Oven - to preheat and bake the Lepinja
Measuring cups and spoons - for accurate measurement of ingredients
Kitchen scale - to measure the flour by weight
Dough scraper - to scrape the dough from the bowl and divide it into balls

Recipe variations

Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option
Adding herbs and spices such as garlic powder, dried oregano, or rosemary to the dough for added flavor
Brushing the Lepinja with melted butter or olive oil before baking for a richer crust
Stuffing the Lepinja with ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or meat to make a stuffed bread
Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top of the Lepinja before baking for added texture
Using a combination of different flours such as rye flour, spelt flour, or cornmeal to create a unique flavor and texture
Making a vegan version by replacing the dairy-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as using plant-based milk instead of water and vegan butter instead of olive oil
Adding a touch of sweetness by incorporating honey or maple syrup into the dough

Recipe overview

Lepinja, often referred to as Balkan bread, is a popular bread variety throughout Southeastern Europe. This traditional bread is characteristically soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats but can also be enjoyed on its own or with a spread of your choice. This recipe provides a simple, step-by-step guide to prepare Lepinja at home. From activating the yeast to shaping and baking the bread, each step is detailed to ensure success. Baking this bread fills your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma, and the end result is a batch of fresh, golden brown Lepinja. The process requires a bit of patience, primarily during the proofing stage, but the outcome is well worth the wait. Whether you're familiar with Lepinja or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a fantastic introduction to the world of homemade Balkan bread. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy your freshly baked Lepinja!

Common questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount of instant yeast as dry yeast.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. The texture of the Lepinja may be slightly different, but it will still turn out delicious.
How can I make the Lepinja softer? To achieve a softer texture, you can increase the amount of olive oil in the dough. Using a higher-fat milk instead of water can also help make the Lepinja softer.
Can I freeze the Lepinja? Yes, you can freeze the Lepinja. Make sure to cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
What can I serve Lepinja with? Lepinja is a versatile bread and can be served with a variety of dishes. It is commonly used to make sandwiches, serve with soups, stews, or grilled meats.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the dough ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons - For accurately measuring the flour, water, sugar, and salt.
Baking sheet - A flat sheet used to place the dough circles for baking.
Baking stone - A heated stone that helps bake the Lepinja evenly and gives it a crispy crust.
Cloth - A cloth to cover the Lepinja after baking, keeping them soft until serving.

Origin stories

Lepinja, also known as Balkan bread, is a much-loved staple in many parts of Southeast Europe, particularly in the countries of the former Yugoslavia. It has a unique, soft texture that makes it perfect for sopping up sauces or for serving with grilled meats, such as the famous cevapi sausages. Legend has it that the secret of its delightful fluffiness lies in the skillful kneading of the dough and the proper use of the baking stone, which gives it its distinctive crust. Every baker, every family, has their own method and recipe, passed down through generations, making each lepinja a piece of living culinary history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.