Are you looking for a simple, healthy bread recipe that doesn't rely on unhealthy oils? Look no further! This recipe delivers a delicious, fluffy loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and requires minimal ingredients. This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, making homemade cooking a breeze. Get ready to experience the joy of baking a fantastic loaf of bread without compromising on flavor or texture!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or alternative)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This proves your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic! If it doesn't foam, your yeast may be old, and you'll need a fresh batch.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the milk 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 your hands 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 the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Kneading develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier, more textured loaf.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl (you can use a tiny amount of oil here if you prefer, but it's not essential), turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake
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). Use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
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 prevents a soggy bottom. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious homemade bread!
Cooking Tips for the Best Bread:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements of ingredients. This is especially important for baking.
- Don't over-knead the dough. Over-kneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated before baking.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the dough for a sweeter flavor.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 70-80
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Fat: 1-2g
This healthy bread recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. Enjoy baking!