Introduction
Politiko Thessalonikis is a rich, soft, and aromatic sweet bread from Thessaloniki, Greece. Known for its golden crust, fluffy texture, and unique fragrance from traditional spices like mahlepi and mastic, it’s a treat often enjoyed during holidays or as a special breakfast with butter, jam, or chocolate. Its name, “Politiko,” refers to its origins from the Greeks of Constantinople (Istanbul), making it a cherished piece of culinary history.
Ingredients (Makes 2 loaves)
- 1 kg (about 8 cups) all-purpose flour
- 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) lukewarm milk
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 200 g (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 4 large eggs (plus 1 egg yolk for egg wash)
- 30 g (about 3 tbsp) fresh yeast (or 10 g / 1 tbsp dry yeast)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mahlepi (ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon mastic (ground with a little sugar to prevent clumping)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Sesame seeds or almond flakes for topping
Instructions
- Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm milk with 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy. - Mix the dough:
In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, sugar, salt, mahlepi, mastic, and orange zest. Add the eggs, melted butter, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. - Knead:
Knead the dough for 10–15 minutes by hand (or 8–10 minutes in a mixer with a dough hook) until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little flour, but avoid making it too dry. - First rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 2–3 hours, or until doubled in size. - Shape the loaves:
Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions. Shape each into a braid (by dividing into three strands and weaving) or a round loaf. - Second rise:
Place shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let rise for 45–60 minutes, or until puffy. - Egg wash and topping:
Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds or almond flakes. - Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. - Cool and serve:
Let loaves cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy plain, or with butter and jam.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra-sweet version, drizzle with syrup or glaze after baking.
- Mahlepi and mastic are key to the authentic flavor—you can find them in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern grocery stores.
- These loaves freeze well; wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature.
Enjoy !!
