Beef And Bean Braid Recipe

Ingredients for Beef And Bean Braid

• Active Dry Yeast
• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• All Purpose Flour
• Lean Ground Beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• Kidney Beans
• 1/4 cup water
• Chili Powder
• Ground Cumin
• Cayenne Pepper
• Cheddar Cheese

How to Make Beef And Bean Braid

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, sugar, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Beat until combined.
3. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of flour, beating until smooth.
4. Stir in the remaining flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
7. While the dough is rising, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat with the chopped onion. Drain off any excess grease.
8. Stir in the drained kidney beans, 1/4 cup water, chili powder, cumin, garlic salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
9. Punch down the risen dough. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 16-inch by 11-inch rectangle.
10. Transfer the dough to a greased 15x10 inch baking sheet.
11. Spread the beef and bean mixture evenly down the center of the dough.
12. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
13. On each long side of the dough, cut 1-inch wide strips, stopping about 1/2 inch from the filling.
14. Fold alternating strips across the filling at an angle, creating a braided effect. Seal the ends.
15. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes, or until doubled.
16. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
17. Brush the braid with the beaten egg.
18. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
19. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.