Painici cu usturoi și unt

When it comes to comforting and flavorful bread, few things can compare to the delightful taste of Painici cu usturoi și unt. This traditional Romanian dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with soft, fluffy bread, creating a symphony of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a delicious side dish to accompany your meal or a tasty snack to enjoy on its own, Painici cu usturoi și unt fits the bill perfectly.
The combination of garlic and butter not only adds a savory depth to the bread but also infuses it with a mouthwatering aroma that will have your whole kitchen smelling amazing. The simplicity of this recipe belies its incredible taste, making it a favorite among both home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Recipe Quick Facts
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine Type: Romanian
Course: Side Dish
Dietary Labels: Vegetarian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– The harmonious blend of garlic and butter creates a flavor explosion in every bite of Painici cu usturoi și unt.
– Quick and easy to make, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
– Vegetarian-friendly, this dish can be enjoyed by a wide range of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Bread
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 10g active dry yeast
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup warm water
For the Garlic Butter Spread
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper to make the garlic butter spread.
5. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the garlic butter spread over the top of each dough ball.
7. Bake the Painici cu usturoi și unt for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Pro Tips for Success
– Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place to ensure proper fermentation.
– Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing with the garlic.
– Adjust the amount of garlic in the spread to suit your personal taste preferences.
Substitutions & Variations
– For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based spread.
– Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the garlic butter spread before baking for a cheesy twist.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

– Painici cu usturoi și unt is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
– To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve Painici cu usturoi și unt alongside a hearty bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
– Pair this bread with a light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded lunch.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 300mg
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead?
While Painici cu usturoi și unt is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it when needed.
2. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, this recipe is baked in the oven for a healthier alternative to frying.
3. What can I substitute for fresh garlic?
You can use garlic powder as a substitute, adjusting the quantity to taste.
4. How do I know when the bread is done?
The Painici cu usturoi și unt is done when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
6. How long do they last?
Painici cu usturoi și unt is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Recipe Notes
Painici cu usturoi și unt is a beloved Romanian bread that embodies the essence of simple yet delicious home cooking. Enjoy the warm, buttery flavors of this bread with family and friends for a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Painici cu usturoi și unt
A traditional Romanian dish of soft and fluffy bread infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. This recipe combines the savory taste of garlic with the creamy richness of butter to create a delightful symphony of flavors.
Ingredients
-
500g all-purpose flour
-
10g active dry yeast
-
1 tsp salt
-
1 cup warm water
-
4 cloves of garlic, minced
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
-
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
-
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
-
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper to make the garlic butter spread.
-
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet.
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the garlic butter spread over the top of each dough ball.
-
Bake the Painici cu usturoi și unt for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
