This Poppy Seed Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. The unique combination of poppy seeds, vinegar, and baking soda creates a delightfully fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, making sandwiches, or serving it as a side dish, this bread is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- Wheat Flour: 470-500 grams (3 3/4 to 4 cups)
- Dry Yeast: 5 grams (1 1/4 teaspoons)
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons (25 grams)
- Poppy Seeds: 2 tablespoons (15 grams)
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
- Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Egg: 1 large
- Vegetable Oil: 25 ml (2 tablespoons)
- Salt: 0.5 teaspoon
- Warm Milk: 200 ml (3/4 cup)
- Soft Butter: 50 grams (1/4 cup)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add half of the flour, salt, and poppy seeds to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
- Beat the egg with vegetable oil in a small bowl, then add to the dough. Mix baking soda with vinegar and add to the dough.
- Knead the Dough:
- Gradually add remaining flour, kneading continuously for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Add Butter:
- Knead soft butter into the dough after the first rise.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Shape and Prepare for Baking:
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased baking pan or on a parchment-lined sheet.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Spread with butter and jam.
- Sandwiches: Use slices for sandwiches.
- Side Dish: Serve with soups or salads.
Cooking Tips:
- Check Dough Consistency: Add more flour if too sticky, more milk if too dry.
- Even Baking: Rotate halfway through for even browning.
- Fluffy Texture: Ensure proper kneading and rising.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Carbohydrates: Provides energy.
- Good Source of Protein: From eggs and milk.
- Healthy Fats: From vegetable oil and butter.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Customizable: Make dairy-free with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, estimated):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Family Tradition: Brings back comforting memories.
- Versatile: Suitable for various meals.
- Delicious Flavor: The poppy seeds add a unique taste.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps for a delightful result.
Conclusion:
This Fluffy Poppy Seed Bread is more than just a delicious recipe; it’s a slice of family tradition. With its light texture and delightful flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dinner. Whether you’re making sandwiches or enjoying it with a warm bowl of soup, this bread will become a beloved part of your family’s culinary repertoire. So go ahead, bake a loaf, and share the love with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
- Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider mixing half whole wheat and half white flour for a balanced texture.
- What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
- You can substitute with sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or chia seeds for a different flavor.
- Can I make this bread without eggs?
- Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
- How do I know if the dough has risen enough?
- The dough should double in size and feel soft and puffy when lightly touched.
- What’s the best way to store the bread?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I add other flavors to this bread?
- Yes, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- What if my bread doesn’t rise?
- Ensure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough for rising.
- Can I use a bread machine to make this recipe?
- Yes, follow your bread machine’s instructions for adding ingredients.
- How do I make this bread dairy-free?
- Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives to make it dairy-free.
- Can I bake this bread in a different shape?
- Yes, you can shape it into rolls or a braided loaf for a different presentation.