This easy homemade bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The combination of wheat flour, dry yeast, and a few simple ingredients results in delicious, fluffy bread that is both tasty and healthy. Follow these simple steps to make your own fresh bread at home.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (including resting time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 350 g wheat flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 g dry yeast
- 210 ml boiled but not hot water
- 30 g vegetable oil
- Additional flour for dusting
- Milk for brushing
- Butter for brushing
Directions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift 350 g of wheat flour into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 5 g of dry yeast. Mix well to combine.
- Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually pour in 210 ml of boiled but not hot water. Mix until the ingredients start to come together.
- Add 30 g of vegetable oil and continue mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Brush the dough with a little vegetable oil and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with cling film and put it in a warm place to rise for 15 minutes.
- Shape the Dough:
- After the dough has rested, transfer it to a floured surface again. Gently press it to remove any air bubbles and shape it as desired.
- Use a knife to cut the dough into your preferred shape or portion sizes.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with a cloth and let it rise for another 10 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare for Baking:
- Brush the risen dough with milk and melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake:
- Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy the bread warm with butter or your favorite spread.
- Use it to make sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the water is not too hot when adding to the yeast mixture, as this can kill the yeast.
- For a crustier bread, you can place a small dish of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
Nutritional Benefits
- Wheat Flour: Provides fiber and essential nutrients.
- Yeast: Adds a good source of B vitamins.
- Vegetable Oil: Offers healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian.
Storage Tips
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the bread in slices and thaw as needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this recipe accessible to all.
- Fresh homemade bread is always a delicious and satisfying treat.
- Perfect for any meal of the day.
Conclusion
Enjoy the delightful taste and aroma of freshly baked homemade bread. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering a healthy and delicious option for you and your family. Happy baking!
FAQ
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular wheat flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser bread. You might need to adjust the water slightly to get the right dough consistency.
Q: Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use the dough setting on your bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow the machine’s instructions for baking.
Q: What if I don’t have vegetable oil?
A: You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil, sunflower oil, or melted coconut oil. Each will give the bread a slightly different flavor.
Q: How can I make the bread softer?
A: To make the bread softer, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of milk powder to the dry ingredients or incorporate a tablespoon of honey or sugar into the dough.
Q: How do I know if the bread is fully baked?
A: The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 90°C (190°F).
Q: Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add herbs, cheese, or other mix-ins to the dough. Fold in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even nuts and seeds for added flavor and texture.
Q: What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
A: If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or an incorrect water temperature. Ensure the water is warm (about 45°C / 110°F) but not hot, and check the yeast’s expiration date. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer spot.
Q: How do I freeze the bread?
A: To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store it in a freezer bag or container. Thaw the bread at room temperature and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes if desired.