Onion Mustard Braid

 Even though I'm not much of a baker, I'm always on the look out for an unusual bread recipe.  This one definitely fits that bill.  I've never had a bread with dried onion and mustard in it before.  They give the bread a unique flavor and gorgeous color.  It is really good with ham or pork.  I've made this into rolls for pulled pork sandwiches, served it with a Honey Baked Ham and I've made it to eat plain because its so darn good!  I was thinking that this recipe would be great made into hamburger buns too! 

It has a unique flavor that will keep people guessing.  I was really surprised that even my little kiddos liked it.  And that's about the best endorsement I can give.  If it's kid friendly, it's grown up friendly. 

Onion Mustard Braid
Makes 1 loaf

1 pkg. active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
2 cups warm milk
3 Tbs. dried minced onion
3 Tbs. prepared mustard
2 Tbs. vegetable oil
2 Tbs. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
6-6 1/2 cups flour

In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.  Add the milk, onion, mustard, oil, sugar, salt and 4 cups of flour.  Beat until smooth.  Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.  Knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.  Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top.  cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

Punch the dough down.  Divide into 3 equal size pieces and roll each piece into an 18"-24" rope.  At one end, pinch the three pieces together, then braid them together and pinch together at the other end.  Carefully transfer to a greased baking sheet.  Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.  Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a deep golden brown.  Cool on a wire rack.  Makes one large loaf.

Source:  Taste of Home