Homemade bread
Homemade Bread: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5-10 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 slices
When it comes to bread, nothing compares to a piece freshly taken out of the oven, with a golden crust and a soft crumb. This homemade bread recipe is not only simple but also healthy, giving you the chance to enjoy an authentic baked product without preservatives and additives. Homemade bread has been a symbol of comfort and family meals for centuries, and today, I will show you how to recreate this tradition in your own kitchen.
Necessary ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 500 ml lukewarm milk
- 2 cubes of fresh yeast (or 7 g of dry yeast)
- 100 ml lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 kg of flour (preferably type 650 for better texture)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 50 ml olive oil (or another vegetable oil if preferred)
- Poppy seeds, sesame, or sunflower seeds (optional, for extra flavor and texture)
Step by step:
1. Preparing the starter:
In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in the lukewarm water. Add one tablespoon of sugar and two tablespoons of flour, mixing well to obtain a smooth paste. Let the starter rise for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential as the activated yeast will give the bread a fluffy texture.
2. Mixing the wet ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the lukewarm milk, salt, and olive oil. Make sure the milk is not too hot, or it will kill the yeast. Combining these ingredients will add richness and moisture to your dough.
3. Creating the dough:
In a large bowl, place the flour (preferably sifted to avoid lumps) and make a well in the center. Pour the activated starter and the egg and milk mixture into the flour. Use a spatula or your hands to gradually incorporate the flour into the wet mixture until a dough starts to form.
4. Kneading:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the bread will become denser.
5. Rising:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. A good idea is to preheat the oven to 50°C, then turn it off and place the dough to rise inside.
6. Shaping the bread:
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air and transfer it to the work surface. If you wish, you can add the poppy or sesame seeds now, kneading them lightly into the dough. Shape it into a round loaf or a baguette, as preferred, and place it in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Second rise:
Cover the bread again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 220°C.
8. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the bread for 40-45 minutes, or until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. A trick for a crunchier crust is to place a tray of water in the oven to create steam.
9. Cooling:
After the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This will allow air to circulate and prevent a soggy crust.
Practical tips:
- You can customize the recipe by adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
- If you want a sweeter bread, you can add a few tablespoons of honey or brown sugar.
- Homemade bread is delicious both fresh and toasted. You can serve it with butter and jam, or use it for sandwiches.
Nutritional benefits:
This homemade bread, made from natural ingredients, offers complex carbohydrates, protein from eggs, and calcium from milk. Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats, and the added seeds contribute fiber and essential vitamins.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast instead of 2 cubes of fresh yeast. Make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.
2. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
The bread can be stored in a cloth bag or a bread box. Avoid putting it in the fridge, as the cold temperature can dry it out.
3. What other recipes can I try with the same ingredients?
You can use the same ingredients to make rolls, focaccia, or pizza. All you need to do is adjust the baking time and shape of the dough.
This homemade bread recipe will delight you and remind you of the authentic taste of home-baked bread. Take the opportunity to experiment and personalize your bread, turning each slice into a unique delicacy. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the irresistible aroma of fresh bread!
Ingredients: 2 eggs, 500 ml milk, 2 cubes of yeast, 100 ml warm water, 1 tablespoon sugar, salt, 1 kg flour, sesame, poppy seeds, sunflower seeds (optional)
