This Yeast and Rice Bread is a unique and nostalgic recipe that brings a delightful twist to your usual baking. The combination of yeast and rice creates a wonderfully soft and slightly chewy texture, making every bite a delicious experience. Enjoy this delightful bread and the joy of bringing a forgotten recipe back to life!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 45 minutes
Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)
- 3/4 cup (150 g) rice, washed
- 3 cups (720 ml) water
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 3 cups (360 g) flour
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 100 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Put 3/4 cup of washed rice into a cooking pot and add 3 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook until the rice is tender but still slightly moist inside, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, transfer the rice into a large mixing bowl and let it cool for 15 minutes to avoid killing the yeast when mixed.
Step 2: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of yeast. Stir well and allow the yeast to activate for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Pour the yeast mixture over the cooled rice, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and mix thoroughly to coat the rice evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
- Gradually add 3 cups of flour to the rice mixture using a strainer, one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition to form a sticky but manageable dough.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and knead the dough gently until it becomes thick but fluffy.
- Cover the dough with cling wrap and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
- After an hour, add a small amount of oil to the dough and knead briefly to redistribute the yeast.
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper and place the dough in the pan, shaping it as needed to fit.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for another 15 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
- Bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes, or until it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 6: Serve and Share
- Slice your bread as desired and enjoy it fresh, with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. This bread makes a standout addition to any meal.
- Share this delightful bread with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for a delicious snack.
- Use it to make sandwiches or toast.
- Pair it with soups, salads, or stews for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure Rice is Slightly Moist: The rice should retain some moisture to help keep the bread soft. If your rice seems too dry, add a little extra water during cooking.
- Proper Yeast Activation: Make sure the yeast mixture becomes frothy before adding it to the rice. If it doesn’t, the yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast.
- Kneading: Avoid over-kneading the dough as it can make the bread dense. The goal is to achieve a fluffy dough that holds together well.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rice: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Yeast: Offers a source of B vitamins.
- Flour: Provides protein and fiber.
- Vegetable Oil: Adds healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with a plant-based alternative.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Twist: Combines the texture of rice with the lightness of yeast bread.
- Soft and Chewy: A delightful combination that makes every bite enjoyable.
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toast, or a snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it may result in a denser loaf and will require a longer cooking time for the rice.
2. Can I add other ingredients to the bread, like seeds or herbs?
Absolutely! You can mix in seeds like sesame or sunflower seeds, or herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor and texture.
3. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary, and additional testing might be needed for the best results.
4. How can I make this bread vegan?
Substitute milk with a plant-based alternative (like almond or soy milk) and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly.
5. Why didn’t my bread rise properly?
If your bread didn’t rise well, the yeast might not have activated properly. Ensure your yeast is fresh and your liquids are at the correct temperature (warm, not hot).
6. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. However, you may not need to activate it in milk first; you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
7. How do I know if my bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it is golden brown on top, sounds hollow when tapped, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Can I use other types of flour like whole wheat?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it will result in a denser loaf. You may need to adjust the liquid content as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
9. What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable.
10. Can I make rolls instead of a loaf?
Yes, you can shape the dough into rolls instead of a loaf. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.