Whole grain bread with flax seeds

Whole grain bread with flaxseeds: a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 slices

Whole grain bread is a symbol of tradition and health, holding a special place in the hearts of many of us. This whole grain bread recipe with flaxseeds is not only a way to add a healthy element to your diet but also an opportunity to reconnect with the art of baking, an ancient craft filled with history.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg of whole grain flour (choose a quality flour, preferably organic wheat)
- 600 ml of lukewarm water (about 37-40°C)
- 1 cube (25 g) of fresh yeast
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (helps balance the taste and strengthen the dough structure)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (adds a delicate flavor and helps retain freshness)
- 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds (an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber)

Step 1: Activating the yeast
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential as it aerates the flour, making your bread fluffier. In a cup, mix the yeast, salt, sugar, and a tablespoon of flour with 100 ml of lukewarm water. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Kneading the dough
Once the yeast is activated, make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Begin to gradually incorporate the flour into the yeast mixture, adding a little lukewarm water until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough by hand for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from your hands. Finally, add the olive oil and knead again for a few minutes.

Step 3: First rising
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size. During this time, you can prepare your thoughts about how your fresh bread will look and smell! My grandmother used to say it’s important to make a large cross in the dough before letting it rise, to bring good luck.

Step 4: Shaping the bread
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Add the flaxseeds and knead gently to incorporate them evenly. Shape the loaves into your desired form – you can opt for a round loaf or a loaf pan. If you choose to use loaf pans, make sure to line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Second rising
Let the bread rise in the pans for about 30 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 220°C (high heat). A useful trick is to place a pot of water at the bottom of the oven; the steam will help the bread rise and give it a perfect crust.

Step 6: Baking
When the oven is ready, lightly score the bread with an oiled knife to allow steam to escape and form a beautiful crust. Bake the bread for 15 minutes at high heat, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue baking for another 30 minutes. The bread is done when it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Resting
After removing the bread from the oven, place it on a cooling rack and wrap it in a clean towel. Let it rest and breathe. My grandmother said it needs to go to "God" to improve the taste!

Serving suggestions:
This whole grain bread with flaxseeds is delicious served plain, with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh tomatoes. You can also slice it and serve it with soft cheese or a hummus dip. It’s perfect for sandwiches, adding extra flavor and nutrients.

Nutritional information:
Whole grain bread with flaxseeds is rich in fiber, protein, and essential fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. One slice (about 50g) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g of protein, 2g of healthy fats, and 25g of carbohydrates.

Possible variations:
To add extra flavor, you can experiment with various seeds - chia, sesame, or pumpkin. You can also include dried herbs or spices, such as basil or oregano, to create a flavorful bread perfect for sandwiches.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why is it important to sift the flour?
Sifting the flour aerates the ingredient, helping achieve a fluffy texture in the final bread.

2. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount. Use about 7g of dry yeast, which is equivalent to half a cube of fresh yeast.

3. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
The bread keeps best in a cloth bag or a bread box. Avoid plastic, as it can cause the bread to become soft and damp.

I hope this whole grain bread recipe with flaxseeds brings you joy and health in every slice! Cooking can be a true art, and every bread you make is an opportunity to create something with love and passion. Enjoy every moment of the process!

 Ingredients: 1 kg wholemeal flour, 600 ml water, 1 cube of fresh yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons seeds

 Tags:  bread