Are you looking for a simple yet nutritious bread recipe to add to your weekly meal plan? This homemade flax meal bread is the perfect solution! It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and fiber thanks to the addition of flax meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner option or a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your homemade cooking journey, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon flax meal
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Optional: ½ cup whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a richer flavor
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 ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, resulting in a beautifully risen loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast is foamy, stir in flax meal, olive oil, and salt. The flax meal adds a subtle nutty flavor and a boost of healthy fats and fiber to your bread.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour (and whole wheat flour, if using), mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at this stage.
Step 4: 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. Kneading develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier, more satisfying loaf of bread.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap 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 process.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled again.
Step 7: 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 for accuracy.
Step 8: 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, healthy homemade flax meal bread!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- Make it sweeter: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
- Add some seeds: Incorporate sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds for added texture and nutrients.
- Use different flours: Experiment with replacing some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, rye flour, or spelt flour.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 Protein: Around 5-7 grams Fiber: Around 2-3 grams
This delicious and nutritious flax meal bread recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and adding a homemade touch to your everyday life. Enjoy this easy recipe and discover the joy of homemade cooking!