I’m a chef, and the founder of Seasoned Whispers, so here is one recipe I can promise will wow your taste buds. Here, we will be tackling bread-making with a particular emphasis on a classic recipe that has never failed us. So put on your sleeves and come with me on a culinary journey to learn how to make homemade bread.
Introduction:
Nothing beats the freshness of baking bread. The mellow scent in the air, the joy of mixing the dough together with your hands, and the anticipation of your first warm slice drizzled with butter – that’s what makes home baking so special. Across cultures, breadmaking is a shared tradition that gathers families and creates memories. Today, we will be stepping into bread-making with a recipe that is traditional and has been enjoyed for generations.
Recipe Overview:
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8
- Tools: Mixing bowl, measuring cups, spoons, baking pan.
- Prep tip: You can prepare this bread ahead of time and keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Storage: Store bread in a dry, cool place to keep it fresh.
Key Ingredients:
- 4 Tbsp olive oil: Olive oil gives the bread a flavorful, soft taste. Avocado oil or coconut oil can be substituted for it if you’re looking for something healthier.
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast: This is required to leaven the bread and give it an airy feel. To get the best result, ensure that your yeast is fresh and in use.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Salt adds flavour to the bread and controls the fermentation. It can be replaced by sea salt or Himalayan salt.
- 1 13 cups warm water: Warm water stirs the yeast and lets the dough rise. The water should not be hot or cold.
- 4 34 cups plain flour: Flour gives the bread a structure and imparts the classic chewy feel. If you wish, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
Recipe Tips & Techniques:
- Place olive oil, dry yeast, salt, and warm water in a bowl. Hold the mix on ice for 5 minutes to make the yeast foam.
- Add the flour slowly to the moist mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it is elastic.
- Then place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it sit out in a warm spot for 1 hour.
- Prick the dough and flatten it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet, cover, and let it rest for 30 more minutes.
- Pre-heat the oven to 375°F and cook the bread for 25-30 minutes, until it is golden.
Serving & Presentation:
After the bread is perfectly browned, slice it into slices and serve hot with plenty of butter. This bread goes well with soups, salads, and pastas. Sprinkle some sea salt or fresh herbs on top for a personal touch. Take this bread and a glass of your favourite wine or a cup of hot tea to have a complete meal.
Cultural Context:
In most cultures, there is something special about bread. Each culture has its own bread tradition, be it baguettes in France or naan in India. This is a recipe that takes inspiration from traditional breads made over the centuries and celebrates the traditional art of baking.
Nutrition & Health:
Bread from scratch can add nutritional value to your meals. It’s free of preservatives and additives and is a great substitute for pre-made bread. It contains all the necessary carbohydrates, protein, and fiber so that it will fill you up and nourish your body.
Lastly, I hope this recipe can encourage you to master bread making and make yummy home baked bread for your family and friends. Remember, love is always the shit. Happy baking!