This Malunggay Bread Recipe is one of the easiest and healthy bread recipes that you can make! It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and energy that your body needs. Pair this with your favorite milk or tea and enjoy a delicious breakfast or snacks!
Love Filipino Bread? Try the fan favorites- Ube Cheese Pandesal, Red Velvet Pandesal with Cheese, or Spanish Bread!
Jump to:
What is Malunggay Whole Wheat Bread?
Malunggay Whole Wheat Bread is a nutritious Filipino bread recipe that is made with chopped malunggay (moringa) leaves, whole wheat flour, reduced-fat milk, yeast, egg and sesame seeds. It's a great breakfast or snack recipe and a natural way to incorporate the benefits of moringa leaf into our daily lives.
What Makes Moringa Special?
Moringa, known for its superfood properties, is packed with health benefits:
- Rich in Nutrients: It’s a great source of protein, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.
- Antioxidants: Moringa helps fight free radicals in the body, promoting better health.
- Supports Digestion: Its fiber content aids in better digestion and gut health.
How to Enjoy Malunggay Whole Wheat Bread
Malunggay Whole Wheat Bread is versatile and easy to incorporate into your meals. Here are some serving ideas:
- Simple and Classic: Enjoy it plain or with a hot cup of powdered milk or tea.
- Toasted with a Spread: Add butter, jam, or peanut butter for a quick snack.
- Healthy Sandwich: Use it as a base for sandwiches filled with veggies, cheese, or lean proteins.
Why You Should Try It
Not only is Malunggay Whole Wheat Bread delicious, but it also helps you add more nutrients to your diet in a natural and tasty way. Whether you’re looking for a healthier bread option or just want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try!
Health Benefits of Malunggay (Moringa)
- Protects and nourishes skin and hair
- Treats edema
- Protects the liver
- Prevents and treats cancer
- Improves eye health
- Fights against bacterial diseases
- Makes the bones healthier
- Treats stomach complaints, diabetes, and asthma
Try making this easy and healthy Filipino bread recipe at the comfort of your home. Happy baking!
Substitutions
- Granulated Sugar:
- Coconut Sugar: For a lower glycemic index and a slight caramel flavor.
- Maple Syrup: For a liquid sweetener (adjust liquids in the recipe accordingly).
- Honey: For a natural sweetener (non-vegan).
- Whole Wheat Flour:
- All-Purpose Flour: For a softer texture.
- Spelt Flour: For a nutty flavor and similar texture.
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: For a gluten-free option (may require additional binding agents).
- Olive Oil:
- Coconut Oil: For a slightly sweet, tropical flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: For a neutral flavor.
- Avocado Oil: For a heart-healthy option with a mild taste.
- Malunggay Leaves or Moringa Powder:
- Spinach: For a similar green color and mild flavor.
- Kale: For a slightly heartier texture and flavor.
- Parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Sesame Seeds:
- Chia Seeds: For a similar appearance and added nutrition.
- Poppy Seeds: For a different but complementary texture and flavor.
- Sunflower Seeds: For a nutty and crunchy topping.
Variations
Cheesy Malunggay Bread
- Ingredients: Add ½ cup of grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or vegan cheese) to the dough.
- Flavors: Creates a savory twist with a rich, cheesy flavor. Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a golden crust.
Sweet Malunggay Bread
- Ingredients: Increase the sugar to ¼ cup and add ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries.
- Flavors: Perfect for breakfast or a snack, with a hint of sweetness and bursts of fruit.
Coconut Malunggay Bread
- Ingredients: Substitute coconut milk for the milk and add ¼ cup of shredded coconut to the dough.
- Flavors: Enhances the tropical vibe with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
Multigrain Malunggay Bread
- Ingredients: Add ¼ cup of rolled oats, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds to the flour mixture.
- Flavors: Creates a more wholesome bread with added texture and nutrition.
Stuffed Malunggay Bread
- Ingredients: Roll the dough out flat and spread a filling such as garlic butter, pesto, or cream cheese before rolling it back up and placing it in the loaf pan.
- Flavors: Creates a flavorful surprise in every slice with rich and creamy fillings.
Storage
At Room Temperature:
- Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
In the Refrigerator:
- If you need to store the bread longer, place it in an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Allow the bread to come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best texture.
In the Freezer:
- For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, transfer the bread to the refrigerator overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
- Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore its freshness and texture.
Additional Tips:
- If storing slices, place parchment or wax paper between slices to make it easier to separate them later.
- Avoid refrigerating the bread unless necessary, as it can make it dry out faster compared to storing it at room temperature or freezing.
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- reduced-fat milk
- granulated sugar
- instant yeast
- whole wheat flour
- salt
- egg
- olive oil
- chopped malunggay leaves or moringa powder
- sesame seeds
Directions
In a small bowl, add milk, one tablespoon of sugar, and yeast and allow it to bloom for 15 minutes. In a large bowl, add whole wheat flour, remaining sugar, salt, and whisk until well combined:
Add in yeast mixture, egg, and olive oil and mix until it forms into a rough dough. Then, add the chopped malunggay leaves:
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 13 minutes:
Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover with cling film and allow it to rise for 45 minutes. Next, punch down and divide the dough into two portions and Place the dough into an oiled loaf pans. Then, sprinkle with sesame seeds. Allow it to rise for the second time uncovered for another 45 minutes:
Bake in a preheated oven for 40 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from the pan and let it cool on a cooling rack:
Slice into portions before serving. Enjoy!
FAQs
Malunggay Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup reduced-fat milk heated to 120°F
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar divided
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup malunggay leaves* chopped
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it bloom for 15 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, egg, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Knead and First Rise
- Add the chopped malunggay leaves to the dough. Knead on a floured surface for 13 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
- Place the dough portions into oiled loaf pans and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Allow the dough to rise uncovered for another 45 minutes until it has risen again.
Bake and Cool
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 40 minutes or until golden brown and fully baked.
- Remove the loaves from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes
Millie W says
So good! I added about 1.5 cups of moringa leaves and a couple tablespoons of moringa powder. Delicious!