Are you ready to experience the unparalleled aroma and taste of freshly baked bread? Forget store-bought loaves; this recipe guides you through making delicious, wholesome bread from freshly milled wheat. It's easier than you think! This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy homemade cooking and healthy meals, perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting weekend treat. Let's get started on this journey of delicious, easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups freshly milled wheat berries (about 1 cup whole wheat berries, freshly milled)
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup lukewarm water (additional, as needed)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey (or sugar). Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, crucial for a successful rise.
- Add the freshly milled wheat flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir well with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Gradually add the additional lukewarm water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and is slightly sticky but not overly wet. The amount of water needed may vary depending on the flour.
Step 2: Kneading and Rising
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, resulting in a better texture.
- 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.
Step 3: Shaping and Baking
- Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a round loaf or place in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Fresh Milled Wheat Bread:
- Freshly milled flour is key: The freshness of the flour significantly impacts the taste and texture of the bread. If you don't have a grain mill, consider buying freshly milled flour from a local mill or health food store.
- Don't overwork the dough: Over-kneading can result in a tough bread. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough without excessive kneading.
- Adjust water as needed: The amount of water required may vary depending on the humidity and the type of flour used. Add water gradually to achieve the correct consistency.
- Check for doneness: Use a bread thermometer to ensure your bread is fully baked. This is the best way to avoid underbaking or burning.
Variations:
- Add seeds and nuts: Incorporate sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or pecans into the dough for added flavor and texture.
- Experiment with herbs: Dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add an aromatic dimension to your bread.
- Sweeten it up: Add a touch of maple syrup or brown sugar for a slightly sweeter loaf.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: 150-200 Protein: 5-7g Fiber: 3-5g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your freshly baked, delicious, and healthy homemade bread! This recipe is a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience that showcases the beauty of homemade cooking and quick dinner ideas. The aroma alone is worth the effort!