Are you dreaming of the warm, yeasty aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen? Do you crave the satisfying crunch of a crust and the soft, fluffy interior? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe is your ticket to the world of homemade bread, even if you're a complete beginner. Bread Becker's Basic Dough is incredibly versatile, adaptable, and, most importantly, delicious. It's the perfect foundation for countless delicious dishes and a great way to elevate your home cooking game. This easy recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy delicious, healthy meals made with love.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm water (around 105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other neutral oil)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Gently stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
Step 4: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into your desired loaf or rolls. Place the shaped dough in a greased baking pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled again.
Step 6: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crumb to set and prevents a soggy loaf.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Water Temperature: Lukewarm water is key for activating the yeast. Too hot will kill it, too cold will slow down the process.
- Kneading Technique: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier texture.
- Rising Time: Rising times may vary depending on the ambient temperature. A warmer room will result in faster rising.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes. Ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) to the dough.
- Garlic Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add ¼ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary depending on the final size of your loaf. This is an approximation for a single slice from a standard loaf.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 2-4g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This basic dough recipe is a fantastic starting point for your homemade bread journey. Experiment with different flours, additions, and shapes to create your own unique and delicious creations. Enjoy the process, and most of all, savor the taste of freshly baked bread made with love!