Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stared at my kitchen counter cluttered with Halloween decorations, an idea struck me—why settle for ordinary when I can create something extraordinary? Enter the Medusa Tear and Share Bread, an enchanting blend of flavorful spinach, briny olives, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Not only does this delightful bread make for a stunning centerpiece at any spooky gathering, but it also encourages everyone to dig in and share—a true crowd-pleaser! With its soft, airy texture and a spicy ‘snake bite’ dip on the side, this recipe transforms mundane meals into festive feasts. Trust me, your guests will be captivated by every delicious bite! Are you ready to conjure up your own Medusa masterpiece? Why is Medusa Bread a Must-Try? Captivating Presentation: This Medusa Tear and Share Bread not only tastes fantastic but also dazzles your guests with its unique shape and vibrant colors. Savory Delight: The medley of spinach, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy ‘snake bite’ dip, making each bite unforgettable. Simple Process: You don’t need to be a baking expert; this recipe breaks down the steps so anyone can create this awe-inspiring bread in their own kitchen. Perfect for Sharing: Designed for tearing and sharing, it fosters a fun, communal dining experience—ideal for Halloween parties or family gatherings. Versatile Options: Want to mix things up? Feel free to experiment by incorporating different herbs or trying out a vegan version with substitutions. The possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for more fantastic bread ideas, check out our recipe for Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks or try a delicious slice of Apple Zucchini Bread. Medusa Tear and Share Bread Ingredients • Get ready to create something magical with these simple ingredients! For the Bread Dough Baby Spinach – Adds color and a nutritious element; use fresh or frozen, but make sure to drain frozen thoroughly. Strong White Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness essential for bread-making; regular all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute. Sachet Fast Action Dried Yeast – The key fermenting agent that helps the bread rise; can be replaced with active dry yeast, remembering to proof it first. Caster Sugar – Introduces a hint of sweetness to balance savory flavors; granulated sugar is an acceptable substitute. Olive Oil – Essential for moistness and dough elasticity; melted butter or sunflower oil can be used as alternatives. Basil Pesto – Adds richness and herbaceous flavor; substitute with homemade pesto or any green herb paste. Black Olives, Pitted and Finely Chopped – Contributes brininess and depth; any preferred variety of olives works well. Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil, Drained and Finely Chopped – Lends tang and umami; fresh tomatoes can be used, but may alter the texture. Feta, Crumbled – Adds creaminess and tang, with goat cheese being a good alternative if preferred. For the Spicy ‘Snake Bite’ Dip Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture for the dip; Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat substitute. Crispy Chilli Oil (Lee Kum Kee Chiu Chow Chilli Oil) – Delivers a kick of heat; feel free to use any chili oil or hot sauce tailored to your spice level. This Medusa Tear and Share Bread is sure to steal the show at your next gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Medusa Tear and Share Bread Step 1: Prepare Dough In a small bowl, combine 300ml of warm water, 7g of sachet fast action dried yeast, and 1 teaspoon of caster sugar. Stir gently and let it bloom for about 10 minutes until frothy. This yeast mixture is essential for your Medusa Tear and Share Bread to rise properly, so make sure it bubbles nicely before proceeding. Step 2: Mix Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of strong white bread flour with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the bloomed yeast mixture, and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading process is key for developing the gluten structure in your bread. Step 3: Incorporate Flavors Gently fold in 150g of chopped baby spinach, 100g of finely chopped black olives, and 75g of sun-dried tomatoes into the dough. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating a colorful, flavorful blend in your Medusa Tear and Share Bread. Step 4: First Rise Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This step is critical for a light, airy bread, so be patient and look for the dough to puff up beautifully. Step 5: Shape the Bread Once risen, punch down the dough to release excess air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf, ensuring a smooth top. Creating a well-shaped loaf will help with an even bake, so take your time during this shaping stage for optimum results. Step 6: Preheat Oven While the dough undergoes its second rise for about 20 minutes, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). This ensures that your Medusa Tear and Share Bread will bake evenly and develop a gorgeous, golden-brown crust. Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper for the dough. Step 7: Bake Bread Carefully place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; you’re looking for a golden-brown crust and a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom, indicating it’s perfectly cooked through. Step 8: Dip Preparation While the bread bakes, prepare the spicy ‘snake bite’ dip. In a bowl, combine 100g of cream cheese, 100g of crumbled feta, 2 tablespoons of basil pesto, and 1 tablespoon of crispy chili oil. Stir until smooth and creamy. This flavorful dip complements your Medusa Tear and Share Bread beautifully. What to Serve with Medusa Tear and Share Bread Imagine a table filled with delightful dishes, each adding a touch of magic to your Halloween feast. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their silky texture complements the bread’s chewiness while offering a comforting side that everyone loves. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: The nutty, caramelized flavors of roasted veggies bring a sweet balance to the spicy dip, making for a colorful plate. Crispy Apple Salad: This refreshing crunch of apples and greens provides a bright contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, velvety pumpkin soup wraps guests in fall flavors, serving as a cozy companion to the Medusa bread. Stuffed Peppers: Loaded with rice, beans, or cheese, these peppers add heartiness to the table while staying true to the Halloween theme. Spooky Fruity Punch: Bright, fruity drinks with a dash of fun (think floating eyeball ice cubes!) keep the festive spirit alive. Chocolate Mousse Cups: End the meal on a sweet, decadent note with these velvety desserts that melt in your mouth, perfect for a Halloween celebration! Cheddar Bisque: Tangy and rich, it perfectly matches the bread’s flavors and can be a delightful way to enjoy leftovers in a new form. Herbed Rice Pilaf: This fluffy side, infused with herbs, lightens the meal while complementing the bread’s richness with aromatic notes. Medusa Tear and Share Bread Variations Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these tantalizing twists on the Medusa Tear and Share Bread that will spark delight in your taste buds! Vegan Option: Swap dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives, like vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for added flavor. Enjoy a guilt-free treat! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist, elevating your bread’s flavor profile with delightful earthiness. Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone inside the dough for a gooey, melty surprise with each tear. Who doesn’t love extra cheese? Olive Medley: Combine various olives, such as kalamata and green for added texture and flavor dimensions. Each bite will tell a new tasty story! Hot & Spicy: Amp up the heat by mixing in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the dough. It’ll add a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore! Sweet Surprise: Introduce a handful of chopped dried fruits, like figs or cranberries, for a sweet counterpoint to the savory ingredients. It’s a delightful contrast! Stuffed Bread: Create pockets of goodness by adding cooked sausage or veggie crumbles in the dough before baking, offering a hearty meal option. Perfect for filling famished bellies! Themed Bread: For a playful touch, dye your dough with natural food colorings to create vibrant Halloween-inspired shades, making your Medusa bread even more festive! These variations won’t just enhance your Medusa Tear and Share Bread experience, but they’ll also have your guests raving about the delicious adventure they had. If you loved this idea, check out our delightful recipe for Zucchini Bread Cookies or dive into a slice of Chocolate Zucchini Bread for more delicious, homemade treats! Expert Tips for Medusa Tear and Share Bread Fresh Yeast: Ensure your fast action dried yeast is fresh; expired yeast can lead to a failed rise and dense bread. Proper Kneading: Knead the dough well until it’s smooth and elastic; under-kneading can make your Medusa Tear and Share Bread tough. Room Temperature: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment; too cold can hinder its growth. Crusty Finish: For an extra-crusty texture, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam. Flavor Variations: Feel free to replace spinach with other greens, or add herbs like rosemary to give your bread a unique twist! Storing Bread: Store any leftover Medusa Tear and Share Bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture! Make Ahead Options Preparing the Medusa Tear and Share Bread in advance saves valuable time and ensures a stress-free cooking experience on party day! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead. Simply follow the instructions until the first rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it in a covered bowl. This slow rise enhances the flavor and texture! When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise again for about 20 minutes before shaping it and proceeding with the rest of the recipe. The bread will be just as delicious, and your guests will be impressed by the freshly baked aroma wafting through your kitchen! How to Store and Freeze Medusa Tear and Share Bread Room Temperature: Store your Medusa Tear and Share Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. Fridge: If you prefer, you can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Wrap it tightly to avoid absorbing any odors from other foods. Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its soft texture and enhance the flavors of the bread and dip. Medusa Tear and Share Bread Recipe FAQs What type of spinach should I use? You can use either fresh or frozen baby spinach for this recipe. If opting for frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dough. How should I store Medusa Tear and Share Bread? To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you choose to refrigerate it, ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods, and it can last up to 4 days. Can I freeze Medusa Tear and Share Bread? Absolutely! For freezing, slice the bread first and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method preserves freshness, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. What if my bread dough doesn’t rise properly? If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to using expired yeast or letting it rise in a cold environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and proof it in warm water with sugar before mixing into your dough. Ideally, the rising place should be warm and draft-free—just like a cozy little incubator! Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and olives, which are common allergens. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. To make it dairy-free, substitute the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, like vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Always check labels for potential allergens, especially regarding the pesto and olives. Spooky Medusa Tear and Share Bread That's Fun to Feast On No ratings yet Make this Medusa Tear and Share Bread, a delightful blend of spinach, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for Halloween gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: HalloweenCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bread Dough300 ml warm water7 g sachet fast action dried yeast can be replaced with active dry yeast1 teaspoon caster sugar can substitute with granulated sugar500 g strong white bread flour all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute3 tablespoons olive oil melted butter or sunflower oil can be alternatives150 g baby spinach use fresh or frozen, drain frozen well100 g black olives, pitted and finely chopped any preferred variety works75 g sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped fresh tomatoes can alter texture100 g feta, crumbled goat cheese can be a good alternativeFor the Spicy 'Snake Bite' Dip100 g cream cheese Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat substitute100 g crumbled feta2 tablespoons basil pesto substitutable with homemade pesto1 tablespoon crispy chili oil use any preferred chili oil or hot sauce Equipment Mixing BowlBaking TrayParchment PaperOven Method InstructionsIn a small bowl, combine warm water, sachet fast action dried yeast, and caster sugar. Stir gently and let it bloom for about 10 minutes.In a large mixing bowl, combine strong white bread flour with olive oil. Add the bloomed yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.Gently fold in chopped baby spinach, finely chopped black olives, and sun-dried tomatoes into the dough. Mix well until evenly distributed.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.Punch down the dough, transfer to a floured surface, and shape it into a round loaf.While the dough rises for 20 minutes, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) and prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper.Carefully place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.In a bowl, prepare the dip by combining cream cheese, crumbled feta, basil pesto, and crispy chili oil. Stir until smooth. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 750IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven for best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
