Are you looking for a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy homemade bread without sacrificing taste or nutrition? Then look no further! This half wheat bread recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking projects. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and results in a wonderfully textured loaf that's both healthy and delicious. This recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons 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 ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in olive oil.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 7: Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 9: 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.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Half Wheat Bread:
- Use a Kitchen Scale: For the most accurate results, use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf of bread.
- Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the bread reaches 200°F (93°C).
- Store Properly: Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Add Seeds and Nuts: Incorporate sunflower seeds, flax seeds, or chopped nuts into the dough for added texture and nutrition.
- Use Different Flours: Experiment with other types of flour, such as rye flour or spelt flour, to create unique flavor profiles.
- Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder, to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This half wheat bread recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a quick dinner idea or a healthy addition to any meal. The delicious aroma filling your kitchen alone makes this recipe worth trying! It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both easy and rewarding, providing delicious dishes that are far superior to store-bought options. Enjoy your freshly baked loaf!