Oven-Free Bread

This oven-free bread is a delightful and simple recipe that yields soft, fluffy bread without the need for an oven. Using kefir and a few basic ingredients, you can create delicious homemade bread right on your stovetop. Perfect for any meal, this bread is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its unique preparation method makes it ideal for those who prefer a no-bake option for their bread.

Preparation Time:

  • Preparation: 30 minutes
  • Rising Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Cooking: 30-32 minutes
  • Total: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 500 g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 6 g dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 350 ml kefir
  • 30 ml vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing)
  • Butter (for greasing the pan)
  • Additional flour (for dusting)

Directions:

  • Prepare the Dough:
    • Sift 500 g of plain flour into a large mixing bowl.
    • Add 1 tablespoon of sugar, 6 g of dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
    • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in 350 ml of kefir.
    • Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the dough is smooth.
    • Add 30 ml of vegetable oil and knead the dough until it reaches a medium-soft consistency.
  • First Rise:
    • Grease a large bowl with vegetable oil.
    • Place the dough in the bowl, cover with food-grade film, and then with a towel.
    • Set aside in a warm place for 40 minutes to rise.
  • Shape the Dough:
    • Once the dough has risen, grease the table with a little oil.
    • Knead the dough gently and form it into a ball.
    • Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
    • Dust a cutting board with flour and roll each piece into a ball.
    • Cover with a towel and let rest for 20 minutes.
  • Roll and Shape:
    • Grease a pan with butter.
    • Sprinkle the table with flour.
    • Roll out each ball of dough to the desired size.
    • Roll up the dough and secure the edges to form a loaf.
    • Place each loaf in the greased pan.
    • Cover with a towel and let rest for another 20 minutes.
  • Cook the Bread:
    • After 20 minutes, cover the pan and bake the bread over medium heat for 20 minutes.
    • After 20 minutes, cover the bread with baking paper and turn over using a plate of appropriate size.
    • Cover with a lid and bake for another 10-12 minutes over medium heat.
  • Cool and Serve:
    • Once the bread is cooked, remove from the pan and let cool completely on a wire rack.
    • Enjoy your delicious, homemade oven-free bread!

Serving Suggestions:

  • This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or as a side to soups and stews.
  • It can also be enjoyed with butter, jam, or any spread of your choice.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the dough is well-kneaded to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
  • If you don’t have kefir, you can substitute it with buttermilk or a mixture of yogurt and milk.
  • Make sure the heat is medium to avoid burning the bread while it cooks.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Provides a good source of carbohydrates and can be enriched with additional nutrients depending on the type of flour and kefir used.
  • It’s a wholesome and filling addition to any meal.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian

Storage Tips:

  • Store: In an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • This oven-free bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile.
  • It requires no special equipment and can be made on the stovetop, making it perfect for those who don’t have an oven.
  • The kefir adds a unique flavor and softness to the bread, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Conclusion: I hope you enjoy baking and eating this delicious oven-free bread. It’s a simple yet rewarding recipe that brings the joy of homemade bread to your kitchen. Don’t forget to write your reviews in the comments and share this recipe with your friends. Thank you for watching, liking, and subscribing! Happy baking! Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary.
  2. Can I substitute kefir with something else?
    Yes, buttermilk or a mixture of yogurt and milk can be used as a substitute.
  3. How can I ensure my bread doesn’t burn on the stovetop?
    Keep the heat at medium and monitor closely to avoid burning. Adjust the heat if necessary.
  4. Can I add herbs or spices to the bread dough?
    Yes, feel free to add herbs, spices, or even cheese for extra flavor.
  5. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
    Ensure the yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough. You can also try adding a bit of sugar to feed the yeast.
  6. How can I make this bread more crusty?
    You can brush the top of the dough with a little water before cooking to help develop a crust.
  7. Can I make this bread in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
  8. How do I know when the bread is fully cooked?
    The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
  9. Can I use a different type of pan?
    Yes, you can use any pan suitable for stovetop cooking, but make sure it is well-greased to prevent sticking.
  10. How long does this bread stay fresh?
    It stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or longer if frozen.