Square Bread
Crispy, golden square bread fried to perfection, offering a delightful crunchy exterior and soft interior—perfect for snacks, breakfast, or side dishes in comfort food meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, and baking powder together.
- Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add lukewarm water and mix to form biscuit-like dough.
- Roll out the dough about 1/2-inch thick and cut into square shapes.
- Cut a hole in the center of each square.
- Fry the squares in deep fat until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or spices into the dough, such as garlic powder or rosemary. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with butter or margarine, though the texture might differ slightly. Ensure the water is lukewarm to promote optimal rising of the dough, and avoid overworking it to maintain a tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
These square breads make a delightful appetizer or snack, especially when served with dips like hummus or salsa. They also pair beautifully with the 'Best Ever' Meat Sauce for a hearty meal. Consider adding a fresh salad or a Pineapple Fruit Bowl on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover square bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Square Bread contains roughly 104 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2223mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. You might want to use a mix of both flours to achieve a lighter consistency while still incorporating the nutritional benefits of whole wheat.
What oil can I use if I don’t have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. While butter will provide a richer flavor, oil will keep the dough lighter. Just remember to adjust the salt in the recipe if using salted butter.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as this can make the bread tough. Kneading the dough gently can also help improve its texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).