Classic Homemade Bread

 

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Classic Homemade Bread: Soft, Delicious, and Easy to Make

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes of resting)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• Dry Yeast: 10 grams (1 packet)
• Warm Water: 200 ml (1 glass)
• Flour: 720 grams (6 cups) + 120 grams (1 cup) for initial mixing
• Salt: 10 grams (1 teaspoon)
• Egg Yolk: 1
• Milk: 1 tablespoon

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water, stirring until fully dissolved.
2. Initial Mixing: Incorporate 120 grams of flour into the yeast mixture, blending until smooth. Cover the dough and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.
3. Form the Dough: Add 400 ml of warm water to the mixture, then gradually mix in 720 grams of flour and salt. Knead for 3-4 minutes until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
4. Fermentation: Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled in size. Punch down the dough, divide it into two portions, and form each into a ball. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
5. Shaping: Lightly flour your work surface, flatten the dough with your fingers, and roll it inward. Repeat with the second dough ball.
6. Final Proofing: Place the shaped dough onto a baking tray, cover, and allow it to rise for an additional 20 minutes.
7. Baking: Brush the dough with a mixture of egg yolk and milk. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.
• Pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

Cooking Tips:

• Use warm, not hot, water to properly activate the yeast.
• Avoid over-kneading to ensure the bread remains soft and light.
• If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour as needed.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Homemade bread is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the day.
• Compared to store-bought options, it contains fewer preservatives, making it a healthier choice.

Dietary Information:

• Contains gluten due to the flour used.
• Suitable for vegetarians.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bread in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s simple and easy to follow with basic ingredients.
• The results rival bakery-quality bread, offering both a soft interior and a crispy crust.
• This versatile bread is perfect for a wide variety of meals and occasions.

Conclusion:

Making this classic homemade bread is a rewarding experience. The soft, flavorful texture makes it an excellent addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create fresh, bakery-style bread in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast directly without dissolving it in water.
2. What if my dough doesn’t rise? Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is at the right temperature. If it still doesn’t rise, the dough may need a warmer environment.
3. Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser. You may also need to adjust the amount of water.
4. How do I know when the bread is fully baked? The bread should be golden brown, and when tapped on the bottom, it should sound hollow.
5. Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough? Absolutely! Incorporate herbs or cheese during the kneading process for extra flavor.
6. How can I prevent the bread from being too dry? Avoid overbaking and ensure your dough has adequate moisture before baking.
7. Can I make this recipe using a bread machine? Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for mixing and baking.
8. What’s the best way to thaw frozen bread? Thaw at room temperature or reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
9. Can I use milk instead of water? Yes, but using milk will result in a denser loaf.
10. How long should I let the dough rise? The dough should double in size, which typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the room temperature.

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