This Grainy Wheat Bread is a wholesome and delicious addition to your baking repertoire. Packed with the nutty flavor of poppy seeds and the goodness of wheat flour, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. Follow this simple recipe to create a loaf with a satisfying texture and rich taste.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 350 ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water
- 5 grams (1 1/2 teaspoons) dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 350 grams (2 3/4 cups) wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 350 ml of warm water with 5 grams of dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well until the yeast and sugar are fully dissolved. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring that your bread will rise properly.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Step 1: Add 350 grams of wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and a dough begins to form.
Step 2: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading helps to develop the gluten in the flour, giving the bread its structure and chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Step 1: Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Step 2: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is known as the bulk fermentation and is crucial for developing flavor and structure in the bread.
Step 4: Shape and Proof the Dough
Step 1: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any trapped air. This step is called “degassing” the dough.
Step 2: Shape the dough into a loaf by folding and tucking the edges under. Place the shaped dough into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
Step 3: Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan. This second rise is known as proofing.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F). This high initial temperature helps the bread develop a good crust.
Step 2: Bake the bread for 15 minutes at 230°C (450°F). After 15 minutes, remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle some water over the top. This helps create a crispy crust.
Step 3: Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C (370°F) and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Step 1: Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Cooling the bread completely ensures that the texture sets properly and makes it easier to slice.
Step 3: Enjoy your homemade Grainy Wheat Bread! It’s perfect with butter, jam, or your favorite sandwich fillings.
Additional Tips
- Storage: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other seeds or grains, such as sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or oats, to the dough. These additions will enhance the texture and flavor of your bread.
- Flour Substitutes: You can substitute some of the wheat flour with whole wheat flour or other types of flour for a different flavor and nutritional profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
- Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply use the same amount as the dry yeast and add it directly to the flour without dissolving it in water first.
- What if my dough is too sticky to handle?
- If your dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is manageable. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the bread dense.
- Can I make this bread without poppy seeds?
- Yes, you can omit the poppy seeds if you prefer. You can also replace them with other seeds like sesame or flaxseeds.
- How can I tell if my bread is fully baked?
- To check if your bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 90°C (195°F).
- Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use a bread machine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the order of ingredients, usually liquids first, then dry ingredients, with the yeast on top.
- What is the best way to store homemade bread?
- Store homemade bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
- Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
- Yes, you can customize this bread by adding ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or other seeds to the dough. Just be mindful of the quantities to ensure the dough can still rise properly.
Conclusion
Baking your own bread is a gratifying experience that brings the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread into your home. This Grainy Wheat Bread recipe is straightforward and yields a delicious, wholesome loaf that you can enjoy in various ways. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!