Source: blog.giallozafferano.it

PRESENTATION

A nourishing sweet baked good prepared with flour, sourdough starter, kefir, butter, sugar, and optional additions such as candied orange peel, raisins, chocolate chips, or jam.

INGREDIENTS:

Base Ingredients

380 g all-purpose flour (Type 0)
(≈ 13.4 oz / about 3 cups)

150 g sourdough starter, refreshed
(≈ 5.3 oz / about ½ cup)

100 g water
(≈ 100 ml / 3.4 fl oz / about ⅓ cup)

100 g kefir
(≈ 100 ml / 3.4 fl oz / about ⅓ cup)

20 g butter
(≈ 0.7 oz / 1½ tablespoons)

20 g sugar
(≈ 0.7 oz / 1½ tablespoons)

Optional Add-ins (to taste)

• Candied orange peel
• Raisins
• Chocolate chips
• Jam
• Granulated sugar

METOD

After refreshing the sourdough starter, weigh 150 g (5.3 oz) and place it in a bowl. Let it rest for about 2 hours.

Add the kefir, sugar, and softened or melted butter.

Add the flour and mix by hand.

Knead for about 10 minutes, until a smooth dough forms.

Divide the dough into small balls.

To make swirls, roll each ball into a thick rope (similar to a breadstick) and twist it around itself. While shaping, add candied orange peel, chocolate chips, raisins, or other desired fillings.

Arrange the swirls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush with a little water or milk, then let them rise in the turned-off oven for several hours.

Bake at 200°C (390°F), lowering the temperature halfway through to 180°C (355°F), for 15–20 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.

ALLERGENS:

Candied orange peel: may contain sulfur dioxide and sulfites

Butter: milk allergens present unless clarified (ghee)

Dark chocolate: check for the presence of soy lecithin

Flour: contains gluten (cereals listed in EU Regulation 1169/2011)

Kefir: milk allergens

Sourdough starter: contains cereal flours listed among allergens (EU Regulation 1169/2011)

Jam: citrus intolerance or possible cross-reactivity in individuals allergic to grass pollens

Raisins: may contain sulfites

NOTE

• Prepare and handle under strict hygienic conditions.

Nutritional and Functional Benefits

Oranges: rich in flavonoids (Vitamin P) and antioxidants that enhance Vitamin C activity, supporting the immune and cardiovascular systems; beneficial for liver function and mood due to folic acid content linked to serotonin production.

Butter: source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) supporting eye health, mucous membranes, bones, immune function, and blood coagulation.

Dark chocolate (≥70% cocoa): supports immune function by stimulating T-lymphocyte production; contains serotonin, endorphins, and other compounds with antidepressant and mood-enhancing effects.

Flour: provides B vitamins (thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, folates) essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Kefir: rich in probiotics that support liver and immune function; contains tryptophan, which helps counteract depression.

Sourdough starter: improves metabolism and contributes to immune system support.

Jam: provides readily available energy, pectin for cholesterol control and bowel regularity, as well as vitamins and minerals.

Raisins: source of antioxidants such as resveratrol with anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties; contribute folic acid linked to serotonin production and improved mood.

Sugar: when consumed in moderation and without contraindications (e.g., diabetes, obesity), provides energy, improves cognitive performance, and has a positive effect on mood.

SAFETY / INTENDED USE

Suitable for individuals with:

• Anorexia or weight loss
• Constipation
• Oral mucositis (lesions and inflammation of the oral cavity)
• Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Not recommended in cases of:

• Constipation with bloating/flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Dysphagia (chewing or swallowing difficulties)