Bread has been a cornerstone of human civilization, evolving from simple flatbreads to the sliced loaves we know today. One of the most intriguing historical breads is Panis Quadratus, a carbonized loaf discovered in Pompeii, dating back to 79 AD. Thanks to modern experimental archaeologists like Farrell Monaco, we now have a reconstructed recipe that brings this ancient staple to life.
But what if we gave it a modern, nutritious upgrade? Enter hemp hearts—tiny, protein-packed seeds that add a nutty flavor and a wealth of health benefits. In true Cannacoin fashion, we’re blending ancient wisdom with contemporary wellness to create a truly unique loaf.
Why Add Hemp Hearts?
Hemp hearts, the soft inner portion of hemp seeds, are nutritional powerhouses. They contain:
- Complete protein: All nine essential amino acids, making them an excellent source of plant-based protein.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: Promoting heart and brain health.
- Minerals and vitamins: Magnesium, zinc, and iron to support overall wellness.
- Nutty, buttery flavor: Enhancing the rustic taste of whole wheat bread.
Adding hemp hearts to Panis Quadratus not only enriches its nutritional profile but also complements the sophisticated flavors of the original Roman recipe.
Hemp-Infused Panis Quadratus Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup bread starter or sponge (see below)
- 2 3/4 cups tepid water
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tsp toasted git (Roman coriander) seeds
- 1/4 cup hemp hearts
- Additional flour for dusting
Tools:
- Bowls
- Tea towel
- Kitchen twine
- A reed, chopstick, or skewer
- Bench knife (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Starter: If you don’t have a sourdough starter, make a sponge by mixing 65g of flour, 65g of water, and a teaspoon of baker’s yeast. Let it rise until tripled in size.
- Toast the Seeds: In a dry skillet over high heat, toast the git seeds until fragrant. Do the same for the hemp hearts to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Mix the Dough: Dissolve the starter in tepid water. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, salt, toasted git seeds, and hemp hearts.
- Knead & Rest: Combine wet and dry ingredients, kneading until the dough is firm but not sticky. Cover and let it rest for 2 hours.
- Shape the Loaf: After a second kneading, shape the dough into a round loaf, tucking the sides under.
- Preheat the Oven to 400°F: Meanwhile, let the loaf rest for an additional hour.
- Decorate: Tie kitchen twine around the loaf to create the signature Panis Quadratus beltline. Use a skewer to imprint eight wedges on the top.
- Bake for 60 Minutes: Place the loaf in the oven and bake until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Allow to cool for at least 2 hours before serving with olive oil, cheese, figs, or red wine.
A Modern Take on an Ancient Classic
By incorporating hemp hearts into this historic recipe, we create a nutritious and flavorful loaf that bridges past and present. This Panis Quadratus with hemp hearts embodies the Cannacoin ethos: blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you're a history buff, a cannabis enthusiast, or a foodie, this bread is a delicious way to connect with the past while nourishing the future.
Bake, share, and enjoy—because good food, like good ideas, is timeless.
Join the Conversation
What do you think of this ancient-modern fusion? Try the recipe and share your results with us on Discord or Reddit. For more cannabis-inspired culinary innovations, stay tuned to the Cannacoin blog!
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