Here’s a classic recipe for making delicious homemade bread. This recipe yields a soft, fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying fresh out of the oven.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 glass of warm milk (200 ml): Warm milk helps activate the yeast and contributes to a soft, tender crumb.
• Half a glass of warm water (100 ml): Provides additional moisture to the dough.
• 1 tablespoon of dry yeast (10 g): The leavening agent that helps the dough rise.
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (40 g): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 1 cup of flour (120 g): Used to create the initial dough mixture.
• 1 egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• Half a tea glass of oil (45 ml): Provides moisture and improves the texture of the bread.
• 4 cups of flour (480 g): Used to form the dough. Adjust as needed to achieve the right consistency.
• 1 teaspoon of salt (8 g): Enhances the flavor of the bread and strengthens the dough structure.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Combine Warm Liquids: In a large bowl, combine 1 glass of warm milk and half a glass of warm water.
2. Add Yeast and Sugar: Stir in 1 tablespoon of dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. Add Flour and Egg: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 1 cup of flour and 1 egg to the bowl. Mix until combined.
2. Add Oil and Flour: Stir in half a tea glass of oil, then gradually add 4 cups of flour, mixing until a dough begins to form. You may need slightly more or less flour, so add it slowly until the dough is soft but not sticky.
3. Season with Salt: Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the dough and mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

1. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

1. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller pieces if making rolls.
2. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a baking sheet, cover it with a towel, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) is ideal.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

1. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
2. Serve: Enjoy fresh bread with butter, as a sandwich, or toasted with your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, assuming 12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg

Cooking Tips:

• Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a bit more water.
• Ensure Proper Rising: Make sure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free area to ensure proper leavening.
• Test for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the bread is done, you can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. The bread should reach 190°F (88°C).

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before using.

FAQs:

• Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour. For best results, use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
• Q: What if my dough doesn’t rise properly? A: Ensure your yeast is fresh and the liquids are at the correct temperature (not too hot or cold). If the dough doesn’t rise, try a warmer location for proofing or check the yeast’s expiration date.
• Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dough? A: Absolutely! You can add ingredients like herbs, cheese, or seeds to customize your bread. Just fold them into the dough during the kneading process.

Conclusion:

Making homemade bread is a rewarding and enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods. With this straightforward recipe, you can create a soft, fluffy loaf of bread that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own bread and savor the delicious results!