There’s something truly special about homemade bread—the aroma that fills the kitchen, the warm, comforting taste, and the satisfaction of making it from scratch. But what if you don’t have an oven or simply don’t want to wait for bread to bake? This no-oven bread recipe is the answer! With just a few simple ingredients and a stovetop, you can create delicious, soft, and flavorful bread that’s perfect for any meal. The subtle hint of cumin adds a unique touch, making this bread stand out from the usual store-bought varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers fantastic results every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Plain flour (400 grams) – 14.1 oz: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.
- Water (220 milliliters) – 1 cup: Helps to hydrate the flour and activate the yeast.
- Instant yeast (6 grams) – 0.2 oz: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise quickly and develop a light, fluffy texture.
- Sugar – 2 teaspoons: Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon: Enhances the overall taste of the bread.
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the bread beautifully.
- Vegetable oil – as needed: Used for cooking the bread, ensuring a golden, crispy exterior.
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Begin by mixing the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and cumin in a large mixing bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Gradually pour in the water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rest in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions, depending on the size of bread you prefer.
- Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook the Bread:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
- Place a dough disc in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. You should see it puff up slightly as it cooks.
- Repeat with the remaining dough discs, adding more oil to the pan as needed to prevent sticking.
- Serve:
- Once all the bread is cooked, serve it warm with your favorite toppings, spreads, or alongside soups, stews, or salads. It’s also perfect for making sandwiches or dipping into olive oil.
Tips for Cooking:
- Resting the Dough: Make sure to let the dough rest for the full hour to ensure it rises properly and results in a light, fluffy bread.
- Even Cooking: Cook the bread on medium heat to avoid burning the exterior while ensuring the inside is fully cooked.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for additional flavor.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: This bread freezes well. Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate per slice):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
Possible Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
- Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a more nutritious option, but the texture might be denser.
- What if I don’t have cumin?
- You can skip the cumin or replace it with other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.
- Can I make this bread without yeast?
- You can try using baking powder as a substitute, but the texture and rise will be different.
- How do I know when the bread is fully cooked?
- The bread should be golden brown on both sides and sound hollow when tapped.
Conclusion:
This no-oven bread recipe is a game-changer for those who want fresh, homemade bread without the need for an oven. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this bread is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of homemade bread anytime, with minimal effort!