Easy Portuguese Bolo do Caco (Printer-Friendly Version)

Soft, warm Portuguese bread with a tender crumb and charred skillet crust for an authentic taste.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups strong bread flour
02 - 1 1/2 cups warm water
03 - 2 teaspoons salt
04 - 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
05 - Extra flour for dusting and shaping

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine instant dry yeast with warm water in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes.
02 - In a large bowl, mix the bread flour and salt thoroughly.
03 - Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and salt blend, stirring until a rough dough forms.
04 - Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 to 15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place kneaded dough in a large bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
06 - Divide risen dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each into small-round balls.
07 - Flatten each dough ball into a 4-inch circle, cover loosely with a cloth, and proof for 30 minutes.
08 - Heat cast iron skillet over high heat and cook each flatbread until slightly charred on both sides.
09 - Allow breads to rest for a few minutes before serving warm, ideally with garlic butter or as sandwich bread.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Use a well-floured surface to prevent sticking during kneading and shaping.
02 - Cast iron skillet provides ideal cooking surface to achieve traditional charring.