Veggie-Stuffed Tortano: A Delicious Bread-Sandwich Fusion

 If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, this Veggie-Stuffed Tortano is the perfect choice! Combining the softness of freshly baked bread with the vibrant flavors of spinach, zucchini, mozzarella, and tomatoes, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping meal. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty snack, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this braided bread-sandwich hybrid is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, deliciously satisfying, and packed with wholesome goodness in every bite!

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • Bread Flour - 3 cups (White Lily bread flour or wheat flour)
  • Olive Oil - 2 tsp
  • Italian Seasoning - 2 tsp
  • Garlic Powder - 2 tsp
  • Salt - 1 tsp
  • Sugar - 2 tsp
  • Yeast - 2 tsp (or 1 pack of dry instant yeast)

For the Filling:

  • Spinach leaves
  • Tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • Mozzarella, sliced
  • Zucchini, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture

  1. Take 3/4 cup of warm water and add sugar. Mix well.
  2. Add the yeast to the water, stir gently, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it rises.

2. Make the Dough

  1. In a mixer (stand mixer works best), combine the dry ingredients: flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well.
  2. Add olive oil and mix until incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the yeast mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Add a bit more water if needed.

3. Let the Dough Rise

  1. Stop the mixer, lightly oil the dough, and cover the bowl. Let it rise for 1 hour.
  2. After it doubles in size, knead it lightly and cover again. Allow it to rise for 30-45 minutes.

4. Assemble the Tortano

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Divide the dough into 2 equal parts to make two tortanos.
  3. Roll one part into a rectangular shape. Brush lightly with olive oil.
  4. Layer the filling: zucchini, spinach leaves, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
  5. Fold one side of the dough to enclose the filling.
  6. On the open side, cut the dough into strips. Fold the strips over the enclosed side, creating a braided look.

5. Bake the Tortano

  1. Brush the top with olive oil or a lightly beaten egg for a golden finish.
  2. Place on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy this delightful veggie-stuffed treat!

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