Double braided bread

Fluffy and Tasty Bread Recipe

This fluffy and tasty bread recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to serve it at breakfast, for a family dinner, or simply indulge in a slice of fresh bread. Homemade bread not only brings a unique aroma to the kitchen but is also a healthy choice, free from preservatives and additives.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (including rising)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 2 loaf pans

Ingredients:

- 1 kg wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 30 g fresh yeast
- 10 teaspoons powdered milk
- 480 ml warm water
- 50 ml oil
- 50 g melted butter (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing)
- Sesame and poppy seeds for decoration

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help activate the yeast and contribute to a more even rising.

2. Water mixture: In a large bowl, add warm water, salt, and brown sugar. Mix well until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. Warm water is essential as it stimulates the yeast to activate and ferment the dough.

3. Activating the yeast: Add fresh yeast to the water mixture and gently mix. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on top. This step is crucial as active yeast will ensure fluffy and airy bread.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, add powdered milk, oil, and melted butter to the water mixture. Then, gradually incorporate the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

5. Kneading: If using a bread machine, select the kneading and rising program. If you prefer the classic method, knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. It’s a process that will bring you satisfaction, and the smell of fresh bread will fill the entire kitchen.

6. Rising the dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

7. Dividing and shaping: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2 equal parts. You can choose various shapes: loaf or simple shapes. If you choose braided bread, divide each portion into 6 strands, braid 3 of them together, and then braid the two parts obtained together.

8. Second rising: Place the bread in greased pans, cover them again with the damp towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rising is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

9. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 160-170 degrees Celsius. After the bread has risen, brush the surface with a little melted butter and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds for an attractive appearance and delicious aroma.

10. Baking: Place the bread in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to avoid compromising the rising.

11. Cooling: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove the bread from the pans and let it cool completely on a rack. This step helps maintain a crispy crust.

Practical tips:

- Oil: Olive oil or sunflower oil can easily replace the oil used. Each type of oil brings a distinct flavor, so choose your favorite.
- Ingredient variations: You can add dried herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to the dough for extra flavor. Also, for a sweet note, you can add dried fruits or nuts to the mixture.
- Serving: Fluffy bread pairs wonderfully with butter and jam but is also excellent for sandwiches. It can be served alongside a warm soup or a fresh salad.

Frequently asked questions:

1. *What type of yeast can I use?* - You can use dry yeast, making sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package. Generally, 10 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 30 g of fresh yeast.
2. *How can I keep the bread fresh for longer?* - The bread can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the bread to keep it longer.
3. *Can I use liquid milk instead of powdered milk?* - Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of water in the recipe, considering that liquid milk contains water.

Nutritional benefits:

This bread is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Additionally, the brown sugar and butter content adds a pleasant taste, while fresh yeast contributes to a healthy digestive system.

Let’s not forget that cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to explore new flavors and textures. So, I wish you good luck in cooking and enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 loaf pans 1 kg flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 large tablespoon brown sugar 30 g fresh yeast 10 teaspoons powdered milk 480 ml warm water 50 ml oil 50 g melted butter sesame and poppy seeds for decoration + 1 tablespoon melted butter