Black bread

To prepare a delicious whole wheat bread, we start by ensuring that all the ingredients are at hand. You will need 500 grams of whole wheat flour, 300 ml of warm water, 10 grams of fresh yeast, a teaspoon of salt, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water. It is important that the water is not too hot, as this could kill the yeast, compromising the rising process. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it starts to foam, a sign that the yeast is active.

In a large bowl, add the whole wheat flour and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the salt in the flour. Then, make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast water mixture. Add the olive oil as well. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, begin to incorporate the flour into the liquid until a dough starts to form. At first, it will seem sticky, but don’t worry. Transfer the dough to a floured countertop and start kneading it with your hands. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and smooth.

Once you finish kneading, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a clean bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume. If you are anxious about the whole wheat flour, you can warm the oven slightly, then turn it off and place the bowl with the dough inside to provide a warm environment ideal for rising.

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a work surface and divide it into two or three parts, depending on the desired size of the bread. Shape each piece into the desired form, whether you want round loaves or baguettes. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Before baking, preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. You can make a few cuts on the surface of the bread to allow steam to escape, which will help achieve a crispy crust. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy a warm slice with butter or alongside a delicious soup!

 Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon yeast (I used dry), 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 tablespoon vinegar, 2 1/4 cups whole wheat flour