Grandma VanDorens' bread
Grandma Van Dorens' bread is more than just a simple recipe; it is a family story, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Its fluffy taste and unmistakable aroma remind us of family meals, moments spent with loved ones, and the skill and love of the grandmother who created it. Each bite is a journey back in time to the 90 years of the grandmother, when she decided to share this culinary secret. So, let's discover together how to prepare this fluffy and extremely tasty homemade bread!
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 5-10 minutes
- Number of servings: 2 large loaves
Ingredients
- 3 cups of warm water (approximately 600 ml)
- 3 tablespoons of dry yeast (make sure it is fresh)
- 3 heaping tablespoons of salt (salt is essential for flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil (oil helps achieve a golden crust)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (to enhance flavor and feed the yeast)
- 8 cups (approximately 900 g) of flour (use quality flour)
Necessary Utensils
- A large mixing bowl
- A kneading bowl
- Two baking trays
- Parchment paper
- A clean towel to cover the dough
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sifting the flour: Start by sifting all 8 cups of flour into a large bowl. This step is important because aerating the flour will help the bread be fluffier.
2. Preparing the dough: Take 4 cups of flour from the total and put them in the kneading bowl. Make a small well in the center of the flour. This spot will become the 'nest' for our magical ingredients.
3. Adding the ingredients:
- In the well of the flour, add the dry yeast.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the yeast, which will help activate it.
- Place the salt around the edge of the bowl so that it does not come into direct contact with the yeast (salt can inhibit its activity).
- Add the oil and finally, the warm water.
4. Mixing the ingredients: Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients. When the dough starts to come together, gradually add the remaining flour, mixing very well.
5. Kneading: After incorporating all the flour, start kneading the dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. You may need a small handful of flour, depending on the humidity in the environment.
6. Rising the dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for one hour or until its volume doubles.
7. Shaping the loaves: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a loaf and place them in the two baking trays lined with parchment paper. Let them rise again until they reach the edge of the trays.
8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. When the loaves have risen properly, place them in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The bread is done when it turns golden and sounds hollow when tapped gently on the bottom.
9. Cooling: Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the trays for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. Important: do not cut the bread while hot; it is best to tear it into pieces to maintain texture and moisture.
Practical Tips
- Checking the yeast: If you are unsure if the yeast is active, mix it with a little warm water and sugar and wait a few minutes to see if it bubbles.
- Aerating the flour: Sifting the flour not only improves its texture but also helps eliminate any impurities.
- Room temperature: Ensure that the dough has a warm and humid environment to develop properly.
Possible Variations
- Adding herbs: You can add aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Seed bread: Add sesame, flax, or sunflower seeds to the dough for an extra crunch and nutrition.
- Sweet bread: If you want a sweet version, add cinnamon and chopped nuts to the dough.
Nutritional Benefits
Homemade bread is always a healthier option than store-bought bread because you know exactly what ingredients you are using. Whole grain flour, in particular, offers essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while vegetable oil can add healthy fatty acids.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why shouldn't I cut hot bread?
Cutting hot bread can destroy its structure, making it dense. Wait for it to cool to get perfect slices.
- How can I keep bread fresh?
Bread keeps best in a cloth bag or a bread box, away from moisture.
Serving
This Grandma Van Dorens' bread is perfect for a variety of combinations. It can be served plain, with butter and jam, or alongside soups, stews, and salads. A toasted slice with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt becomes a delicious appetizer.
In conclusion, making Grandma Van Dorens' bread is not just a culinary process but an activity that brings joy and warmth to the soul. Try this recipe and let yourself be inspired by the traditions that connect us to our loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Sift the flour into a bowl. Take 4 cups of flour from the total and put it in the mixing bowl. Make a small well in the center. Add the yeast, then the sugar on top, followed by the salt around the edges, the oil, and the water. Mix well, and when the dough starts to come together, gradually add the rest of the flour while mixing thoroughly. Knead just enough to incorporate the flour well (you may need a small handful of extra flour beyond the amount). Let it rise for an hour in a warm place, covering the bowl with a cloth. When the volume has doubled, divide the dough into two and place it in two baking trays lined with parchment paper. Let it rise until it reaches the edge of the tray, then bake in a preheated oven at 175 degrees for 40-45 minutes. Never cut hot bread. If you're craving it, it's better to tear off pieces.
Ingredients: 3 cups warm water (600 ml) 3 tablespoons dry yeast 3 tablespoons salt (heaped!!!) 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 tablespoons sugar 8 cups / 900 g flour
