English Muffins
English Muffin Recipe - Delicious Breads for Breakfast or Snacks
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 6 muffins
Introduction
English muffins are those fluffy and delicious breads, perfectly suited for a savory breakfast or a pleasant snack with tea. These muffins are often used to host eggs Benedict, but feel free to serve them with jam, cream cheese, or even a delicious slice of avocado. The history of these muffins is fascinating, as they have been cherished for centuries, with an airy texture and subtle flavor that makes them versatile. Let’s explore the recipe for these wonderful muffins together!
Ingredients needed
- 80 ml milk at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 packet of active dry yeast
- 80 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon of oil (preferably olive or vegetable oil)
- 500 grams of flour (you can use white flour or a combination with whole wheat flour for added fiber)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons of cornmeal (for a rustic appearance and special taste)
- Oil for frying
Step by Step
Step 1: Preparing the milk
Start by heating the milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Be careful! Do not let the milk boil, just warm it up. Once removed from the heat, add the white sugar and stir well until completely dissolved. Let it cool to about 40 degrees Celsius. This step is crucial, as milk that is too hot can kill the yeast.
Step 2: Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 10 minutes. You will notice the yeast starting to form bubbles, indicating that it is active and ready to use.
Step 3: Preparing the dough
In another bowl, combine the warm milk with the activated yeast, add the oil and half of the flour. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Then add the salt and the remaining flour gradually, mixing until you have a firm dough.
Step 4: Kneading the dough
Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Shape it into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shaping the muffins
After the dough has risen, place it on a floured work surface and gently knead to release the air. Roll it into a cylinder and cut it into slices about 2-3 cm thick. These will become the muffins.
Step 6: Rising the muffins
Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper and sprinkle a little cornmeal on the bottom. Place the dough slices on the tray, sprinkle a little more cornmeal on top and let them rise for 30 minutes. This step will help achieve a fluffy texture and a crispy crust.
Step 7: Cooking the muffins
In a non-stick skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Carefully place the muffins in the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes on each side until they are golden and fluffy. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to allow them to cook evenly.
Step 8: Serving
Once the muffins are ready, you can serve them warm or cold. I warmly recommend cutting them in half and spreading a bit of butter on each side, then topping them with fruit jam, cream cheese, or poached eggs for a delicious meal. These muffins are also wonderful with a slice of avocado or smoked salmon.
Chef’s tip
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can add dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) to the dough to give it a unique flavor. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour or different types of oil to adjust the texture and taste.
Nutritional information
Each muffin contains approximately 160 calories, 4 grams of protein, 28 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of fat (depending on the oil used). They are a good source of carbohydrates and can be included in a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I substitute dry yeast with fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast. Use about 15 grams of fresh yeast to replace 1/2 packet of dry yeast.
2. How can I keep the muffins fresh?
You can keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them in a plastic bag and thaw them as needed.
3. What drinks pair well with these muffins?
English muffins are excellent alongside freshly brewed coffee, tea, or even a delicious smoothie.
Customized version
To make the muffins even more interesting, you can add shredded cheddar cheese or pieces of olives to the dough. These additions will turn the muffins into a savory snack perfect for any time of the day.
So let’s get cooking! English muffins are an excellent choice for an energy-filled breakfast or a delicious snack. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and tell them about your culinary adventure. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 80 ml milk at room temperature, 2 teaspoons white sugar, 1/2 packet active dry yeast, 80 ml warm water, 1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon of oil, 500 grams flour, a pinch of salt, 2 teaspoons cornmeal, oil
