Ghanaian Tea Bread

To make Ghanaian tea bread from scratch, start by combining 4 cups of bread flour, 1.5 tablespoons of instant yeast, 0.25 teaspoons of nutmeg, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 3 tablespoons of margarine in a mixing bowl. Then, add 1 can of evaporated milk and 1.25 cups of water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the stand mixer to rest every 5 minutes. After the dough is stretchy, let it rest for 30 minutes, then roll and mold it. Allow the molded dough to rest again until it doubles in size, then bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes.

Ghanaian tea bread is suitable for vegetarians since it contains no meat. However, it is not vegan due to the use of margarine and evaporated milk. If you're looking for a vegan option, you can substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and replace the evaporated milk with a non-dairy milk alternative.

If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk. For a richer flavor, you can also use coconut milk, but keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.

To store leftover Ghanaian tea bread, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Just slice it before freezing, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Ghanaian tea bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of spreads and toppings. You can enjoy it with butter, jam, or honey for a sweet breakfast. For a savory option, try it with cheese or avocado. It also goes well with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect snack or breakfast choice.