This Quick No-Knead Wholemeal Bread is the perfect solution for when you need fresh bread in a hurry. Made with a simple mix of wholemeal and bread flour, this no-knead recipe delivers a loaf that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. With a few basic ingredients and a little time, you can have homemade bread that’s perfect for any meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rest Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 400 ml warm water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 13 g dry yeast (about 1 tablespoon)
- 200 g wholemeal flour (1 2/3 cups)
- 300 g bread flour (2 1/2 cups)
- 2 teaspoons salt (12 g)
- 20 ml olive oil (1 1/3 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon black cumin seeds (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large steel pot or glass bowl, mix warm water, apple cider vinegar, and dry yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add the wholemeal flour, bread flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spatula or spoon until combined; no kneading is required.
- Incorporate Olive Oil:
- Pour in the olive oil and mix until the dough absorbs it fully. The dough will be sticky, which is normal.
- Shape the Dough:
- Sprinkle a little flour on top of the dough to make it easier to handle. Transfer the dough to a 24 cm (9.5-inch) pan lined with baking paper. Use a small saucepan to gently press the dough into shape.
- Add Toppings:
- Spray or sprinkle water onto the surface of the dough, which helps create a crispy crust. Spread the dough evenly in the pan and sprinkle with sesame and black cumin seeds if using. Make a few shallow scratches or cuts on the surface for decoration.
- Bake:
- Place the pan in a cold oven (do not preheat) and bake at 200°C (392°F) for 50-55 minutes until the bread is golden brown with a crispy crust.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with soups, salads, or simply enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast.
- This bread makes excellent sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date. If in doubt, let it sit in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5 minutes to see if it foams.
- Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on the humidity and flour type, you might need a bit more or less. The dough should be sticky but manageable.
- Add Seeds or Nuts: Customize with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Wholemeal Flour: Adds fiber and nutrients, making this bread healthier and more filling.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats, adding richness and moisture to the bread.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-Friendly: This bread contains no animal products.
- Low-Sugar: Contains only natural sugars from the flour, making it suitable for low-sugar diets.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approximately 12 slices per loaf)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 4 g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: No need to knead or wait long hours for rising; perfect for last-minute baking.
- Crispy and Soft: Achieves the ideal balance of a crispy crust and a soft, airy inside.
- Versatile: Great for any meal, from breakfast to dinner.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it accessible and cost-effective.
Conclusion
This Quick No-Knead Wholemeal Bread recipe is a lifesaver when you need fresh, homemade bread in no time. It’s easy to make with a deliciously crispy crust and tender crumb, perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly less chewy. - Why use apple cider vinegar in the bread?
The vinegar helps strengthen the dough and enhances the bread’s texture and flavor. - Do I need to proof the dough?
No need for extended proofing; the dough rests briefly before baking, which is enough. - Can I add other herbs or spices?
Yes, you can add dried herbs, garlic powder, or onion flakes for extra flavor. - What if I don’t have a baking pan of the specified size?
You can use any pan that allows the dough to spread to a similar thickness. - Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Replacing the flours with gluten-free alternatives requires adjustments to the recipe as gluten-free flours behave differently. - How do I know if the bread is fully baked?
The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom and have a nice golden crust. - Can I omit the olive oil?
Olive oil adds moisture and richness; omitting it may result in a drier bread. - What can I use instead of sesame and black cumin seeds?
You can top with poppy seeds, flaxseeds, or even leave the bread plain. - Can I bake this bread in a preheated oven?
Baking in a cold oven allows for a gradual rise and a crispy crust, but you can try preheating for a different texture.
Enjoy baking this easy and delicious bread that’s sure to become a household favorite!