Aliki Petrakis shares a collection of inspired recipes from her Greek family and simple dishes for the everyday mom.
Tsoureki
1. Combine 1 package of active dry yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 cup of warm milk. Set aside to bloom for about 15 minutes
2. Then add 1/2 a cup of melted cooled unsalted butter, 1/4 a cup of fresh orange juice and 1/4 a cup of honey
3. Add 2 large room temperature eggs and the zest of 1 orange mixed with 1/2-3/4 a cup of sugar minus 1 tablespoon
4. Then add 1/2 a teaspoon of salt, 1/2 a teaspoon of mahelpi and 1/2 a teaspoon of mastica
5. On medium low speed, add 4 1/2 cups of flour a little at a time until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky, just tacky
6. Knead for a few minutes with the dough hook
7. Then place on a lightly floured surface and knead by hand as well
8. Add to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise in the microwave for 2-3 hours
9. Divide the dough into 8 equal balls
10. And roll each ball into a log and make 2 large 4 strand braids, tucking the top and bottom to secure. Transfer to a prepared baking sheet
11. In a small bowl whisk 1 egg with 2 tablespoons of milk
12. Brush the tops of both loaves well
13. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel and allow to rise for 1 1/2 hours
15. Brush with the egg wash again and bake for 40-45 minutes (rotate pan if necessary)
16. Remove from the oven and brush the tops with olive oil or butter
17. Allow to cool and enjoy!