How to make
Kolach is one of the traditional Christmas breads. They are distinguished by being twisted in such a way that they have a hole in the center.
As with other Christmas ritual breads, this one must be accompanied by song and lots of love.
The yeast is dissolved in the slightly warmed water with the sugar. Let it activate for 8-10 minutes.
The flour is sifted into a bowl and the activated yeast, oil and salt are added to it.
Knead a smooth dough, shape it into a ball and leave it in a greased bowl covered with a towel. It is left to rise for 50 minutes in a warm place.
When the dough is ready, it is divided into two parts - one larger than the other. Three elongated strips are made from each and they are braided. Two braids are obtained - a shorter and longer one.
The ends of the short are joined and placed as a ring in a greased baking pan. The longer braid is wrapped around it. A fireproof bowl is placed in the hole in the middle, just in case, because the ritual bread may fill the hole when it rises.
The shaped kolach is smeared with oil and it is left to rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Bake it in an oven heated to 370°F (190°C) until a golden crust is obtained, approximately 35 minutes.
As well as one big Kolach Christmas Bread, you can make smaller bagels/kolach - whatever you like.
Happy and blessed holiday!
