Are you looking for a delicious and healthy bread recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This einkorn bread recipe delivers a wonderfully rustic loaf with a subtly sweet and nutty flavor, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. Einkorn, an ancient grain, offers a delightful texture and a nutritional boost compared to modern wheat. This homemade bread recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Get ready to experience the joy of baking with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups einkorn flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating a light and airy loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add olive oil to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together einkorn flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little sticky at this stage.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface with einkorn flour. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). You can use a bread thermometer to ensure it's perfectly baked.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the inside to finish baking and prevents a soggy bottom. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade einkorn bread!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add 1/4 cup of whole wheat flour along with the einkorn flour.
- Add herbs and seeds: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) or 1/4 cup of seeds (sunflower, flax, or pumpkin) into the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it a sweeter bread: Add 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- No-knead option: For a simpler approach, use the same ingredients but mix everything together and let it rise for a longer period (around 4-6 hours). Then shape it and bake as usual.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 100-120
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This einkorn bread recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious don't have to be mutually exclusive. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can bring simple joy and nutritious meals to your table. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!