Kūmarahou Bread Recipe

Loaf of kumarahou bread on a cooling rack

A soft, fluffy homemade bread made with kūmarahou tea. This simple recipe adds a subtle earthy flavour and has become a favourite in our home.

Why Bake With Kūmarahou?

Kūmarahou is traditionally prepared as a herbal tonic, but it can also be used in baking. A strong tea infusion adds a gentle earthy character to homemade bread while keeping the loaf soft and light.

Kumarahou bread Ingredients for baking on a wooden bench

Ingredients

  • 500ml kūmarahou tea infusion (made with 2 tbsp kūmarahou leaf tea)
  • 1 tsp raw honey
  • 5–5½ cups flour
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • Warm water (for activating yeast)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp milk powder
  • 1 tbsp oil, melted butter, or margarine

How To Make Kūmarahou Bread

Step 1

Prepare the kūmarahou tea by steeping 2 tablespoons of kūmarahou leaf in hot water for 5 minutes.

Remove the leaves and stir in the honey while the tea is still warm. Allow the infusion to cool.

Step 2

In a small cup, combine the yeast with a little warm water and leave for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Bread Maker Method

  • Add 4 cups of flour, salt, and milk powder to the bread maker.
  • Pour in the kūmarahou infusion, oil, and activated yeast.
  • Begin mixing and gradually add more flour until the dough forms a soft, workable consistency.

Mixer or Hand Method

  • Combine the flour, salt, and milk powder in a large bowl or stand mixer.
  • Add the kūmarahou infusion, oil, and activated yeast.
  • Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover and leave in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.

Shape and Bake

Transfer the dough to a lined loaf tin or cake tin.

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.

Two loaves of kumarahou bread dough in black loaf pans on a wooden bench

Tips

  • A stronger kūmarahou tea infusion will create a deeper flavour.
  • Honey can be replaced with sugar if preferred.
  • Enjoy fresh with butter, honey, or your favourite spread.