Chilli Breadsticks

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast.

   Tip: This ensures your dough will rise properly and develop good flavour.

2. 2

   Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Pour the yeast mixture and 30ml of olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   Tip: Knead thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives breadsticks their characteristic texture.

3. 3

   Warm the remaining 30ml olive oil in a small pan and toast the minced garlic, chilli flakes, oregano, and smoked paprika for 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

   Tip: Blooming the spices in oil releases their essential oils for maximum flavour.

4. 4

   Stretch the dough on a lightly oiled surface into a rectangle about 1cm thick. Brush the garlic-chilli oil mixture evenly over the entire surface, reserving some for brushing later.

   Tip: Save a little oil mixture to brush on top before baking for extra colour and flavour.

5. 5

   Cut the dough into strips about 2cm wide and 15cm long using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Twist each strip gently and place on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them 2cm apart.

   Tip: Twisting the strips adds visual appeal and helps them cook evenly.

6. 6

   Cover the tray with a damp kitchen towel and let the breadsticks rise for 15 minutes at room temperature until they've puffed slightly.

   Tip: A second rise adds airiness to the final texture.

7. 7

   Preheat your oven to 200°C. Brush the breadsticks with the remaining garlic-chilli oil, sprinkle with grated parmesan and fresh parsley.

   Tip: Parmesan adds a savoury depth that complements the chilli heat perfectly.

8. 8

   Bake for 20-25 minutes until the breadsticks are golden brown and crispy. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

   Tip: Don't skip the browning stage—it creates the crispy exterior that makes these so addictive.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes on the tray before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm, optionally with a cooling yoghurt or sour cream dip.

   Tip: The residual heat will continue to crisp them up as they cool slightly.