Unleash the secrets of professional bakers with this simple and delicious bread recipe that only requires basic ingredients you likely already have at home. Follow these steps to create a perfect homemade loaf with a crisp crust and tender crumb.
Ingredients:
- Wheat Flour: 500g total (75g + 425g)
- Boiled (Hot) Water: 105ml
- Water: 220ml
- Dry Yeast: 6g
- Salt: 10g
Instructions:
Prepare the Flour-Water Mixture:
- Mix Flour and Hot Water: In a bowl, combine 75g of wheat flour with 105ml of boiled (hot) water. Mix well until smooth. Set this mixture aside to cool.
Activate the Yeast:
- Mix Yeast and Water: In another bowl, mix 220ml of water with 6g of dry yeast. Let it sit for a few minutes until the yeast starts to foam.
Combine Ingredients:
- Combine Mixtures: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled flour-water mixture with the activated yeast mixture.
- Add Flour and Salt: Add 425g of wheat flour and 10g of salt. Mix well until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Knead: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf or your desired shape.
Second Rise:
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for another 40-60 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Score the Loaf: Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool:
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Flour-Water Mixture: The initial hot water and flour mixture helps to pre-gelatinize the starches, giving the bread a better texture and a longer shelf life.
- Kneading: Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which provides structure and chewiness.
- Temperature: Ensure the water for the yeast activation is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Scoring: Scoring the dough allows steam to escape, resulting in a beautiful crust.
Health Benefits
- Whole Ingredients: Using basic, whole ingredients ensures there are no unnecessary additives.
- Homemade Bread: Freshly baked homemade bread can be healthier and more nutritious than store-bought options.
- Controlled Sodium: By making your own bread, you control the amount of salt used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the water content as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough? The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. You can also perform the “windowpane test” by stretching a small piece of dough – it should stretch thin without tearing.
Can I add other ingredients to the dough? Absolutely! You can add seeds, herbs, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor and texture of your bread.
How should I store the bread? Store the bread in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze it.
Conclusion
Unlock the secret to delicious homemade bread with this simple recipe. Perfect for any meal, this bread will impress your family and friends with its taste and texture. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful aroma of fresh bread in your home.