Country-style bread

Country-style Bread – A Tasty Walk in the Heart of Autumn

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

I invite you to discover a traditional country-style bread recipe, full of flavors and memories. This bread is perfect to be enjoyed alongside sheep cheese and fresh tomatoes, bringing a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every slice. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a cooking enthusiast, this simple and quick recipe will give you the satisfaction of making delicious bread with a crispy crust and a fluffy crumb.

A Brief History of Homemade Bread

Bread is one of humanity's oldest foods, symbolizing not just sustenance, but also community and tradition. In many cultures, bread-making is a ritual that brings families together. Every housewife has her own tricks and secrets to achieve the best bread, and this recipe is inspired by country traditions, where simple and natural ingredients are most valued.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g flour (it is recommended to use wheat flour, preferably type 650 for better texture)
- 250 ml warm water (about 30-35 degrees Celsius, like in the sun)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to activate the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for flavor)
- 4 tablespoons oil (optional, for a fluffier bread)
- 2 eggs (optional, for a richer taste)
- 1 ripe tomato (for a delicious decoration)

Step by Step: Preparing the Bread

1. Sifting the flour: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step not only removes any impurities but also aerates the flour, giving the bread a lighter texture. You can sift it directly onto a newspaper, as done in the countryside, to add a touch of authenticity.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, rub the yeast with the sugar until it becomes liquid. Then, add the warm water and mix well. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve well-risen bread.

3. Forming the dough: Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the prepared liquid. Mix with a spoon or your hands, gradually incorporating the flour until a soft dough forms. Finally, add the salt and oil (if you decide to use it).

4. Kneading: On a floured work surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. The dough should become elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. First rising: Place the dough in a clean bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a clean towel or lid and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles in volume (about 30-50 minutes, depending on the ambient temperature and the quality of the yeast).

6. Preheating the oven: About 15 minutes before taking out the dough, preheat the oven to maximum (220-250 degrees Celsius) and place an empty ceramic dish inside. This step will create a baking environment similar to a traditional hearth.

7. Second rising: After the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and gently knead it to release the air bubbles. Shape it according to the form of the dish you want to bake it in (for example, a round shape or a baguette). Place the dough on a baking sheet and let it rise again, covered with a towel, for 20 minutes.

8. Preparing for baking: When the dough has risen again, poke it with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Lightly cut a ripe tomato and crush the pulp with seeds on top of the dough, giving it a unique texture and taste.

9. Baking: Reduce the oven temperature to 200 degrees Celsius and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes. The bread is done when it turns golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cooling and serving: After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool on a rack. This step is crucial to prevent steam from softening the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is perfect to be served with country sheep cheese and fresh tomatoes, but you can also pair it with olives, butter, or to make delicious sandwiches. Additionally, a glass of red wine or a fragrant tea will perfectly complement your rustic meal.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bread

- If you want a moister bread, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt or milk to the dough.
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but remember that it will require a larger amount of water.
- You can add sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or nuts to the dough for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast. Mix it with the flour instead of activating it in water.

2. What do I do if the bread doesn’t rise?
Make sure the yeast is fresh and that the environment temperature is warm. You can try letting it rise in a warmer place, such as near a warm oven.

3. How do I keep the bread fresh?
Bread is best kept in a cloth bag or a bread box. Avoid keeping it in the fridge, as it will dry out faster.

In conclusion, making this country-style bread is a fulfilling and memorable experience. Once you have tasted a fresh slice, you will want to make it again and again. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour, 250 ml lukewarm water (like the sun), 4 tablespoons oil (optional), 2 eggs, 25 g fresh yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tomato for greasing the dough.

 Tags:  bread homemade bread pastry shop