Bread Recipe
Baking your own bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and offers a delicious reward. This bread recipe is simple yet yields a crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 350ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 large loaf, serving about 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 150 calories, 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, 2g fat, and 1g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and add yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan and cover it again. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or use gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions. Additionally, honey can replace sugar for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and salads. Enjoy it with butter, jam, or as a base for bruschetta.
Storage and Reheating
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not using warm enough water for yeast activation.
- Over-kneading the dough can lead to a tough texture.
- Skipping the resting time can result in dense bread.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the outcome.
- Opening the oven door too early can cause the loaf to collapse.
Helpful Tips
- Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Try adding herbs or cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid squishing.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it first.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding seeds or nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
How can I make my bread rise better?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and use warm water for activation. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
Conclusion
This homemade bread recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the art of baking. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious loaf that will impress your family and friends. Happy baking!
Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet 7g active dry yeast
- 350 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and add yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan and cover it again. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
