Psome - Greek "City Bread” Recipe

This Psome is translated as Greek city bread and usually is not eaten by Greek village people. This makes two loaves.

Ingredients:
2 pkgs. dry active yeast
1 cup lukewarm water
3 T. sugar
1 T. salt
1/4 cup melted butter
6 cups sifted flour
2 T. cream
2 T. sesame seeds

Step 1. Sprinkle the yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar in the lukewarm water. Cover and let stand for 7 to 8 minutes until the mixture is bubbly.

Step 2. Stir the remaining sugar, salt, butter and egg together.

Step 3. Scald the milk. When it is lukewarm, add it and the yeast mixture to the egg mixture. Add the flour and stir well.

Step 4. Turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead for 10 minutes.

Step 5. Butter the inside of a large bowl and turn the dough ball in the bowl, rotating it so all sides are lightly oiled. Cover with a tea towel and let stand in a warm place until double in bulk, about 2 hours.

Step 6. Punch the dough down with your fist. Turn the dough out on a floured board again and knead for 2 to 3 minutes more.

Step 7. Divide the dough into two pieces and place each into a well-greased 9-inch cake pan or place both loaves on a greased cookie sheet.

Step 8. Brush the tops with cream and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Step 9. Cover with a tea towel and let stand in a warm place until the dough doubles again - about 1 hour.

Step 10. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 40 minutes. Serve.